Love is Deep Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Love is Deep Synopsis
Zheng Dingding and her boyfriend Chen Xun have been in love for many years, and she once put her dream of designing pet toys on hold for the sake of her relationship.
When she realizes that Chen Xun cannot forget his ex-girlfriend, Zheng decides to give up the unequal relationship and regains her dream with the encouragement of Dr. Ning Weijin, a mammographer.
Ning Weijin is attracted to Zheng Dingling and confesses his love for her, but Zheng Dingding refuses for the reason that she needs to focus on her career.
Ning Weijin doesn’t give up but cares for her at work and in life. Zheng Dingling unknowingly falls in love with him.
Despite the many problems they encounter because of their careers and family backgrounds, they try to overcome all kinds of difficulties for each other. This relationship allows Zheng Dingding to find herself and become confident, and also allows Ning Weijin to let go of his former stubbornness.
With the help of Zheng Dingding, Ning Weijin also unravels the knot with her father.
However, because of a serious misunderstanding, Ning proposes to break up. This time, Zheng Dingding takes the initiative to redeem. the misunderstanding is finally lifted and they finally go together.
Love is Deep Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Zheng Dingding, a shy and introverted woman, had dedicated herself to her relationship with Chen Xun, a successful businessman. She set aside her dream of designing pet toys to support him, diligently managing their online mall, Chengpin, which thrived under their combined efforts. However, a sharp chest pain led her to Renxin Hospital.
During her examination, Dr. Ning Weijin, a breast specialist, instructed her to remove her clothing and, after palpating, diagnosed her with a mammary fibroma measuring about 2x2 cm. He recommended surgery, scheduling it for Friday and advising her to undergo an ultrasonography (USG) beforehand. When Zheng Dingding hesitated about the timing and necessity of surgery, Ning Weijin stated he was only available on Friday and that surgery was the standard treatment.
He also informed her that he would perform the surgery himself, revealing he had tried to call her the previous day to confirm, but she had missed his call. Meanwhile, hospital interns gossiped about Ning Weijin, acknowledging his exceptional talent as the youngest professor at 28, but also his famously aloof personality. Rushing back to the company, Zheng Dingding found it in disarray during their 2nd-anniversary celebration.
The main server had crashed, rendering the website inaccessible, and customer complaints overwhelmed them. Unable to reach Chen Xun, who was away on a business trip, Zheng Dingding decisively rented two proxy servers to stabilize the system, taking full responsibility for the significant cost. After a day of hard work, the website was restored, and Zheng Dingding treated her exhausted team to night snacks.
As they ate, Chen Xun finally called, apologizing for his unavailability due to meetings and commending Zheng Dingding's handling of the server crisis. He informed her he would be delayed by another day but promised to return for the anniversary celebration. He then requested a last-minute change to the event’s floral decor, asking for champagne roses instead of the original lavenders and sunflowers.
Although Zheng Dingding was surprised, noting the original flowers suited their "return to nature" theme, Chen Xun insisted, mentioning an "important announcement" he planned to make, and felt champagne roses would be more fitting. Zheng Dingding started to mention her surgery but chose not to, and they ended their call. Perplexed but hopeful about Chen Xun's impending announcement, Zheng Dingding confided in her childhood friend, Xiao Feng.
Xiao Feng immediately believed it was a marriage proposal, a joyous assumption Zheng Dingding also embraced. Xiao Feng insisted on taking Zheng Dingding shopping, not only for a formal dress for the party but also a wedding gown, which she paid for. Alone in the dressing room, Zheng Dingding playfully rehearsed her wedding vows, imagining the perfect moment. She was startled when Ning Weijin suddenly appeared, causing her to lose her balance.
He asked if she was getting married, to which she sheepishly replied she was just trying on the dress. Discovering Ning Weijin owned a cat, Zheng Dingding gifted him a handmade cat toy she called "Shrimp Ball," crafted in the likeness of her own feline and filled with catmint. Later, Zheng Dingding received a video call from her parents.
Her father, Lao Zheng, casually mentioned her upcoming surgery was minor and confirmed they wouldn't return from their Hokkaido trip, suggesting Chen Xun should accompany her. When her mother saw Zheng Dingding in the wedding dress, she became ecstatic, assuming Chen Xun was proposing. Zheng Dingding vaguely confirmed he "might propose," and her mother's excited questioning continued until Lao Zheng quickly ended the call.
Ning Weijin, who happened to be nearby and overheard parts of the conversation, quietly offered his congratulations to Zheng Dingding. He then reminded her that her surgery was scheduled for Friday at 3 PM and that he had called her yesterday to confirm the time, which she had missed. Zheng Dingding apologized for missing his call, explaining her overwhelming workload.
On the night of the Chengpin Life anniversary celebration, Zheng Dingding, radiant in her formal dress, felt a surge of anticipation as employees greeted her, some affectionately calling her "boss' fiance." Heading to the elevator to welcome Chen Xun, she was met with a shocking sight: the doors opened to reveal his ex-girlfriend, Wen Zixin, intimately adjusting Chen Xun's tie. Chen Xun, seemingly unaware of Zheng Dingding's distress, introduced Wen Zixin as his "girlfriend."
Zheng Dingding stood momentarily stunned before numbly shaking Wen Zixin's extended hand. After the elevator closed, a heartbroken Zheng Dingding retreated to the party. Shortly after, Chen Xun and Wen Zixin made a grand entrance together. During his anniversary speech, Chen Xun thanked everyone for their support, and then, in his "important announcement," revealed Wen Zixin as Chengpin Life's new spokeswoman. The announcement drew murmurs of surprise from the audience, utterly shattering Zheng Dingding's hopes for a proposal.
Seeing Zheng Dingding's dejected departure, Chen Xun followed, attempting to explain that Wen Zixin was merely a business partner. However, Wen Zixin soon joined them, pointedly thanking Zheng Dingding for arranging the champagne roses, implying the idea had originated with her. She then led Chen Xun away to meet Mr. Sheng from Huasheng Dairy, who was interested in a partnership. As Zheng Dingding watched them leave, a mix of emotions washed over her when she spotted Ning Weijin.
Ning Weijin, who was looking for a friend, noticed her distress and offered her ice cream. He advised her that while sweet food might temporarily stimulate endorphins, it was ineffective for true emotional regulation, and she should instead "directly confront" her unhappiness. That evening, a troubled Zheng Dingding lay on her sofa when her parents video called. Her mother, still enthusiastically calling her "bride," became visibly upset upon learning there was no proposal and no ring.
Her father, sensing Zheng Dingding's distress, quickly ended the call. The next day at the office, Zheng Dingding noticed colleagues whispering and pointing at her. She confronted Xiao Feng for spreading rumors that had caused a stir. Unfazed, Xiao Feng warned Zheng Dingding to be vigilant against Wen Zixin, fearing her influence could reignite old flames and cause trouble in Zheng Dingding's relationship.
Later, a distracted Zheng Dingding made a critical error with the order blanks, misdirecting fresh produce intended for Shanghai to Inner Mongolia. Chen Xun, furious, reprimanded her for the "low-level mistake" that threatened Chengpin's reputation, emphasizing her responsibility to set an example. Wen Zixin, entering the office, promptly mitigated the situation by leveraging her connections at a TV station to locate the delivery driver at a highway service area.
Chen Xun, visibly relieved, praised Wen Zixin's efficiency, further diminishing Zheng Dingding's spirits. After work, Chen Xun drove Wen Zixin to her hotel. During the drive, Wen Zixin jokingly suggested they co-rent, which visibly unsettled Chen Xun. He then received a call from Zheng Dingding and, uncharacteristically, lied, claiming he was stuck at work and couldn't leave. He dropped Wen Zixin off, unaware that Zheng Dingding had just arrived outside the company and witnessed their departure.
The following morning, Zheng Dingding arrived at the company and, with unexpected resolve, broke up with Chen Xun. She explained that she was exhausted; she had mistakenly believed that her hard work, understanding, and unwavering support during his challenges could somehow make her a substitute for Wen Zixin. However, seeing Wen Zixin in person, she realized she was perpetually relegated to the role of a "junior schoolmate" and could never truly compete.
What Zheng Dingding toiled to achieve, Wen Zixin accomplished effortlessly and superiorly. She concluded that Wen Zixin was the one Chen Xun genuinely needed, admitting her defeat entirely. Chen Xun was stunned by her pronouncement. Shortly after, Xiao Feng confronted Chen Xun, revealing that Zheng Dingding had surgery scheduled for 3 PM that afternoon, emphasizing it was his final opportunity to salvage their relationship.
Wen Zixin, overhearing, interrupted to remind Chen Xun of their critical meeting with Mr. Sheng that same afternoon, subtly challenging him by recalling his disdain for dishonest men, and asked him how he planned to proceed. Meanwhile, Zheng Dingding sat alone at the hospital, filling out her surgery consent form. A nurse approached, asking about her family.
Episode 2 Recap
As Zheng Dingding prepared for her surgery, a nurse presented her with the Operation Consent Form. When asked about her family, Zheng Dingding replied that she didn't want to trouble anyone for what she believed was a minor operation. Meanwhile, Chen Xun called Zheng Dingding, apologizing that he couldn't cancel a crucial business trip with Mr. Sheng. He assured her that Xiao Feng would be there, promising to be with her upon his return.
Xiao Feng, visibly upset by Chen Xun's absence, silently signed the consent form and then reassured Zheng Dingding, telling her not to worry as he would be there for her. Before the procedure began, Dr. Ning Weijin told Zheng Dingding not to be nervous, explaining it was a minor operation. Zheng Dingding then asked him a poignant question: if a tumor could be removed by a scalpel, what about memories and feelings?
During the local anesthesia, Zheng Dingding unexpectedly fell asleep, and the entire surgery was completed while she was unconscious. When she awoke, Dr. Ning informed her that she had even talked in her sleep, requesting the tumor be taken for a frozen section. Zheng Dingding apologized, explaining she tends to get sleepy when nervous, to which Dr. Ning replied that it helped keep her quiet.
He then outlined the post-operative instructions, mentioning that his assistant, Fu Miaomiao, would provide further details. He also kindly offered her to rest longer in the operating room, as it wouldn't be used again until evening. Upon returning home with Xiao Feng, Zheng Dingding checked her phone, disheartened that Chen Xun had not contacted her.
Later, Dr. Shu Yiran proudly announced that she had completed a unilateral mastectomy in 1 hour and 52 minutes, surpassing Dr. Ning Weijin's previous record of 1 hour and 56 minutes. However, Dr. Ning calmly congratulated her, stating that he performed surgeries to refine his skills, not to compete. Shu Yiran then revealed she heard Dr. Ning had completed a mammary fibroma surgery in just 35 minutes, an unusually fast time for him.
She speculated that the patient must have been very beautiful, causing him to be "touched," and pressed him for details. Dr. Ning, seemingly flustered, quickly excused himself, claiming he needed to make the rounds of the wards. Shu Yiran invited him for dinner, but he declined, citing other plans. Back home, Zheng Dingding felt uncomfortable with her tight bandage and used a chopstick to loosen it.
She was delighted to receive her first order for handmade pet toys on her newly launched online store, which she had opened after resigning from her previous job. She was confident that "God won't let her starve to death" and planned to buy materials the next day. Dr. Ning, concerned about her recovery, instructed his assistant, Fu Miaomiao, to call Zheng Dingding to check on her condition. Zheng Dingding was surprised by the hospital's attentive service, reporting no discomfort.
Later, she humorously realized her missing chopstick was still tucked into her bandage. Meanwhile, Dr. Ning Weijin's younger sister, Ning Weixuan, arrived unexpectedly at his apartment, having secretly dropped out of her financial management program in the UK. She complained of starvation and presented a rare doll she had brought from Japan. Dr. Ning sternly confronted her, having learned of her return from their childhood friend, Gao Ren.
He chided her for not returning home, revealing their father knew she had dropped out and was arranging for her to attend another college. Ning Weixuan defiantly refused, stating that her father would be happy to save tuition, as it was what "that woman" (implying a stepmother) wanted. She asserted her independence, claiming she could support herself and that her brother would eventually support her.
She then unveiled her certificate as the city's only Certified Pet Communicator, likening herself to a "human psychologist," and dramatically knelt to beg Dr. Ning for funds to open her own studio, suggesting he could be a shareholder. Dr. Ning, however, simply told her to pack up and come home with him. As Dr. Ning drove Ning Weixuan home in the pouring rain, he spotted Zheng Dingding waiting at a bus stop.
Without hesitation, he pulled over and insisted she come with him to the hospital for a check-up, emphasizing that a post-operative patient should be resting, not out in the rain. Ning Weixuan introduced herself to Zheng Dingding as Dr. Ning's sister, and Zheng Dingding reciprocated. At the hospital, Dr. Ning instructed Zheng Dingding to remove her wet clothing so he could examine her wound. He then re-bandaged her incision more loosely, noting that it was not inflamed.
As Zheng Dingding expressed concern about returning home in a hospital gown, Dr. Ning offered her his windbreaker. Shu Yiran, also at the hospital, noticed Ning Weixuan and teased her about dropping out of school again. Ning Weixuan brushed it off, stating she relies on her brother for everything. Shu Yiran later saw Zheng Dingding wearing Dr. Ning's windbreaker.
Ning Weixuan, observing her brother's unusual attentiveness toward Zheng Dingding, began to playfully tease him, but he quickly silenced her with a threat to make her leave if she continued her "nonsense." Undeterred, Ning Weixuan questioned Dr. Ning about Zheng Dingding, eventually asking Zheng Dingding a barrage of personal questions, including her age, star sign (Zheng Dingding was a Leo, Ning Weixuan a Gemini), and culinary preferences.
Dr. Ning interrupted, handing Zheng Dingding medication and reminding her to contact him if any issues arose. Zheng Dingding thanked him and promised to return his windbreaker after washing it. Ning Weixuan mused that her brother, despite his "cold-faced benevolent doctor" persona, was showing unusual care, which she saw as a positive sign. Upon returning home, Zheng Dingding received a large express package containing her wedding dress.
Seeing it triggered a flood of memories—her joy trying it on, Chen Xun's past proposal vows—which quickly turned into overwhelming sorrow and tears. Shortly after, her mother video-called, scolding her for not disclosing her surgery and admonishing her father as an "old fool" for keeping it a secret. Zheng Dingding, unable to contain her emotions, burst into tears, confessing how much she missed her mother. Her parents quickly comforted her, promising to return home the very next day.
Later, Ning Weixuan, ever the matchmaker, pressed Dr. Ning about Zheng Dingding. She pointed out that Zheng Dingding met his aesthetic standards: no makeup, no high heels, minimal jewelry, and eyes full of "simplicity and sincerity." She joked that the only remaining questions were whether Zheng Dingding watched idol dramas or ate scallion pork, which she vowed to ask next time. Dr. Ning dismissed her, instructing her to cook dinner or pay rent.
He then pulled his cat, Nannan, out of his cloakroom. Ning Weixuan lovingly hugged Nannan, reminding the cat that she was the one who personally selected and ordered its food, only for Dr. Ning to remind her that he was the one who paid for it.
Ning Weixuan persisted, highlighting Dr. Ning's unusual reaction to her teasing about Zheng Dingding, contrasting it with his typical indifference to other potential romantic interests, concluding that Zheng Dingding was "not an ordinary patient" to him and he "might be interested in her." With a mischievous grin, Ning Weixuan added Zheng Dingding's WeChat to her brother's phone, playfully calling herself a "conscientious porter."
Looking at a cat doll, Dr. Ning was transported back to his childhood, recalling the day his mother passed away. He remembered almost being hit by a car while walking in a daze, only to be saved by a young girl with a similar cat doll, a memory that had stayed with him ever since. Chen Xun arrived at Zheng Dingding's apartment, his expression somber as he spotted the wedding dress in her living room.
He apologized for his absence during her surgery, explaining he couldn't cancel his meeting with Mr. Sheng. Zheng Dingding, however, responded that some things, once missed, could not be changed. She calmly stated that as a company head, he had made a correct business decision, and she wouldn't have blamed him even if they hadn't broken up. Chen Xun offered to wait for her answer, implying a hope for reconciliation.
Zheng Dingding then showed him her handmade pet toy designs and newly launched online store, expressing her passion and belief in her new venture. As they talked, Wen Zixin called Chen Xun. He abruptly excused himself, telling Zheng Dingding he had to leave but would visit her again in a few days. Before departing, he noticed Dr. Ning Weijin's windbreaker hanging near the door and questioned Zheng Dingding about it.
She explained it belonged to a "friend" who had lent it to her when her clothes were wet, and she hadn't yet returned it, leaving Chen Xun looking deeply troubled. Outside Zheng Dingding's apartment, Xiao Feng confronted Chen Xun. He criticized Chen Xun for not appreciating Zheng Dingding and for his involvement with Wen Zixin. Chen Xun clarified that he and Wen Zixin had "nothing," explaining she was temporarily staying at his home because she disliked hotels.
Xiao Feng retorted that Zheng Dingding had seen Wen Zixin at his house and was upset, adding that Zheng Dingding needed peace of mind after her surgery and advised Chen Xun to leave her alone. Chen Xun, in turn, questioned Xiao Feng's possessiveness over Zheng Dingding, asking if he considered her a "good friend or private property" and why he was hostile to her male acquaintances.
Xiao Feng, feigning indifference, stated he was only hostile to those who hurt Zheng Dingding and happy for those who treated her well. To further provoke Chen Xun, Xiao Feng disclosed that Dr. Ning, who performed Zheng Dingding's surgery, was very kind to her, and Zheng Dingding seemed to have "special feelings for him." He then handed Chen Xun his resignation letter, which Chen Xun immediately accepted.
Xiao Feng later admitted to Zheng Dingding that he intentionally exaggerated her closeness with Dr. Ning to upset Chen Xun. Zheng Dingding was dismayed, worrying about how Chen Xun would perceive her. Xiao Feng then playfully suggested that Dr. Ning's windbreaker at her home was "fate" and encouraged her to consider a relationship with him. Meanwhile, Gao Ren attempted to trick Dr. Ning Weijin into a blind date, claiming he needed a companion for the girl's friend.
Dr. Ning reluctantly agreed but, in retaliation, ordered an array of the restaurant's most expensive dishes, including Swedish salmon soup, French Black Truffle Crispy Soup, Andalusian cold soup, Pavillon Rouge du Margaux, Sour Cherry Lava Chocolate, Cassis Blackcurrant Mousse, and Fig Caramel Cake. A horrified Gao Ren then promised never to use Dr. Ning as a shield again, declaring their friendship over. Later, Zheng Dingding and Xiao Feng met Zheng Dingding's parents for dinner.
During the meal, her mother scolded her father for prioritizing their Hokkaido hot spring trip over telling her about Zheng Dingding's surgery, prompting a playful argument about priorities. They then unexpectedly encountered Dr. Ning at the same restaurant. Zheng Dingding's mother, immediately charmed by Dr. Ning's kind demeanor, enthusiastically praised him, asking if he was single and inviting him for dinner. Both her father and Xiao Feng also spoke highly of Dr. Ning, encouraging Zheng Dingding to consider him.
After leaving the restaurant, her parents continued to extol Dr. Ning's virtues, urging Zheng Dingding to move on from her recent breakup by starting a new relationship. Zheng Dingding, however, explained she wasn't ready to date just a week after her breakup, humorously telling her mother to "watch less idol dramas." At the office, Chen Xun had a conversation with Cat, his subordinate, who noted Chen Xun hadn't been resting well.
Cat explained that Zheng Dingding was upset because she had anticipated a marriage proposal at the anniversary gala, only for Chen Xun to announce Wen Zixin as the company's spokeswoman instead. This, combined with Wen Zixin staying at his home and his absence from Zheng Dingding's surgery, led to her "misunderstanding." Chen Xun confirmed his continued love for Zheng Dingding, recalling how she had supported him during his lowest points and helped him overcome painful memories.
He admitted that he had made mistakes by being too focused on work and not considering their future. Although uneasy, Wen Zixin encouraged Chen Xun to "coax Zheng Dingding back," suggesting he win her heart again.
Episode 3 Recap
Zheng Dingding received a pet toy order from a buyer who decided to pick up the goods in person. Soon after, Wen Zixin sent Dingding a friend request via WeChat. Dingding agreed to meet her at a coffee shop. Zixin greeted Dingding warmly, reminiscing about their past outings and offering Dingding her favorite desserts. She then gently urged Dingding to reconsider her relationship with Chen Xun, even offering to sacrifice her endorsement opportunity if she was the obstacle.
Dingding, however, maintained that the issue was hers alone. Suddenly, Chen Xun entered the cafe, holding a bouquet of roses. He knelt before Dingding and proposed marriage. The surrounding crowd chanted for Dingding to accept. Dingding was momentarily stunned, recalling Xiao Feng's poignant words: a man who allows her to face surgery alone clearly does not love her.
When Chen Xun pressed her, she questioned his timing and sincerity, asking if his proposal was merely to make her happy, rather than a genuine desire for marriage. Chen Xun asserted that their long-standing partnership in building their business made marriage an inevitable conclusion, admitting he might have neglected her. Dingding retorted that his perception of her efforts was merely as someone who accompanied him, implying anyone could fill that role.
She then challenged him to name just one of her favorite foods, promising to accept his proposal if he could. Chen Xun faltered, unable to answer. Dingding, heartbroken, told him he hadn't done anything wrong, but simply didn't love her enough. She declared she was tired of fighting for a place in their relationship and walked out. Wen Zixin, who had been observing, then approached Chen Xun, a faint, knowing smile on her lips.
Outside, Ning Weixuan was enthusiastically showing her brother, Ning Weijin, a potential location for her cat cafe. She loved the bright space, envisioning a sunny lounge for cats, but after Ning Weijin teased her practical view, she playfully called him a "straight man." As Ning Weixuan pleaded with him to rent the shop, she spotted Dingding walking by, tears streaming down her face. Ning Weijin immediately left his sister and followed Dingding.
Just as a bicycle nearly struck Dingding, Ning Weijin quickly pulled her to safety. Chen Xun and Wen Zixin, who had followed Dingding out of the cafe, witnessed the scene. Chen Xun, seeing Ning Weijin comforting Dingding, confronted him, demanding to know his identity. Upon learning Ning Weijin was Dingding's attending doctor, Chen Xun grew jealous and angrily pulled Dingding’s arm, causing her wound to flare with pain.
Ning Weijin sharply rebuked Chen Xun for his insensitivity, further provoking Chen Xun who expressed his disdain for a male breast surgeon. Ning Weijin retaliated by suggesting Chen Xun's narrow-mindedness and the emotional distress he caused might be contributing to Dingding’s illness. Exhausted, Dingding asked Chen Xun to leave, and he departed with Wen Zixin. Dingding then turned to Ning Weijin, frustrated, asking why he always appeared when she was at her most vulnerable.
Ning Weijin stayed with her, offering her diluted saline and advising her to vocalize her feelings instead of bottling them up. He drew a parallel to the silent progression of breast cancer, emphasizing that patience is not always a virtue and encouraging her to fight back. Dingding, though surprised by his bluntness, was touched by his genuine concern.
Back at home, Dingding tried to distract herself from her heartbreak by busying herself with housework, even moving her wedding dress out of sight. That evening, she received an apology text from Ning Weijin, to which she replied, apologizing for her earlier outburst, and he wished her a good rest. She spent the night struggling to sleep.
The next day, after a brief, flirty encounter with a woman on a blind date ended abruptly for Gao Ren when he showed her a plastic surgery ad, Ning Weixuan splashed him with a water gun. Later, Ning Weixuan called Ning Weijin to pick up an express package, sending him Dingding's address. Ning Weijin arrived at Dingding's apartment, much to both their surprise. Dingding, embarrassed by her messy apartment, quickly went to change.
While she was gone, Ning Weijin, claiming to have OCD, neatly tidied her living room. Noticing her pet toy designs, which Ning Weixuan had praised, he encouraged Dingding to pursue her passion, suggesting she now had the freedom to do what she truly loved. Dingding, amused by his practical approach to comfort, showed him pictures of her late cat, Shrimp Ball, the inspiration for her designs.
She expressed a slight guilt, feeling as though she was "selling" her beloved cat, but Ning Weijin reassured her that she was simply spreading the happiness Shrimp Ball had brought. He then mentioned his own cat, Ning Weinan, named by his sister because it was "difficult" to raise. Dingding returned his freshly cleaned jacket, and he reminded her about her upcoming stitches removal appointment. After Ning Weijin left, Dingding found a note he had left on her bathroom mirror.
It advised her to wear comfortable, non-constricting bras, particularly avoiding padded ones, emphasizing that breast health was more important than cup size. Dingding glanced at her own padded bra hanging nearby and felt a flush of acute embarrassment. Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan eagerly showed Gao Ren her new cat cafe, jokingly pretending they were going to steal from it before revealing it was hers.
She presented him with the blueprints and renovation details, declaring him the project supervisor while she handled other preparations, such as exploring the city, attending yoga classes, and caring for Ning Weinan. Gao Ren grumbled at the heavy workload, but Ning Weixuan's charming persistence eventually won him over. Back at Ning Weijin's apartment, he was delighted with a comfortable pet pillow he had retrieved from a package, discovering it was one of Dingding's designs.
Ning Weixuan returned, boasting about how she had "tricked" Gao Ren into paying for an expensive dinner. She heaped praise on Dingding's talent. Ning Weixuan then complained about Shu Yiran's bossy nature, contrasting it sharply with Dingding's "awesome" and "a little bit cute" personality, and openly voiced her support for Ning Weijin pursuing Dingding. Her brother, however, advised her to focus on her own life. Later, Dingding went to the hospital for her stitches removal.
Ning Weijin complimented her on following his advice about comfortable bras, noting her good recovery. Dingding noticed him using her pet bolster, which he confirmed was a comfortable gift from Ning Weixuan. Ning Weixuan then arrived with a bento for her brother and was thrilled to see Dingding. She immediately invited Dingding to go shopping with her, an invitation Dingding accepted. Gao Ren arrived to pick them up, serving as their "chauffeur." Ning Weixuan introduced Dingding to him.
Gao Ren's playful flirting with Dingding was quickly shut down by Ning Weixuan, who reminded him that Dingding was their friend. She then teasingly jabbed at Gao Ren's profession as a plastic surgeon. As they shopped for pet supplies for the cafe, Ning Weixuan confessed her childhood affection for Gao Ren, explaining that her constant "bullying" was a way to get his attention since he only saw her as a little sister. Dingding admired her courage.
Ning Weixuan then turned her attention to matchmaking, probing Dingding about her impressions of Ning Weijin. Dingding admitted she found him "warm" and "considerate," despite his outwardly cold demeanor. Ning Weixuan pressed further, asking if Dingding would consider dating her brother, revealing that he was 29 and had never been in a relationship. She listed his preferences, including a dislike for heavy makeup, high heels, idol dramas, and "stewed pork with scallion" (as he dislikes both pork and scallion).
Dingding, still recovering from her recent breakup, promised to consider Ning Weijin as her first option if she decided to date again, solidifying it with a pinky swear. Meanwhile, Gao Ren, overhearing Ning Weixuan's matchmaking attempts, expressed his skepticism. He called Ning Weijin an "insulator of love" and suggested Shu Yiran would be a better match. Ning Weixuan, however, staunchly defended Dingding, emphasizing her unique charm and dismissing Shu Yiran as not her brother's type.
Episode 4 Recap
Zheng Dingding was still contemplating opening her own design studio. She had recently broken up and was reluctant to start a new relationship, but promised Ning Weixuan that she would consider Ning Weijin first when she was ready to date again. Ning Weixuan, pleased, then shared some of Ning Weijin's likes and dislikes. Zheng Dingding also recalled Chen Xun's encouraging words about her talent and how she could spread happiness through her creations.
Ning Weixuan had even generously offered her a space for a studio right next to her Master Miao Amusement Park cafe. Soon after, Wen Zixin sought out Ning Weijin at the hospital, deliberately making an appointment with him. Despite Ning Weijin's clear reluctance to engage, giving her only one minute, Wen Zixin pointedly asked if he liked Zheng Dingding. Observing his hesitation, she understood his feelings and advised him to cherish Dingding.
Meanwhile, Chen Xun faced a challenge at his company: his employees couldn't differentiate between various milk samples needed for a new agency deal. Annoyed, Chen Xun dismissed them, noting that Zheng Dingding would have easily identified the difference. Just then, Wen Zixin arrived, saying she had no schedule and wanted to help. She swiftly tasted the milk samples and pointed out which one was thicker, easily solving Chen Xun's problem.
Impressed, Chen Xun explained that the brand was Australian, looking to expand into China, and would cover transportation costs. Wen Zixin shrewdly suggested seizing the opportunity to secure more Australian suppliers. Pleased, Chen Xun invited her to a dinner with Mister Xu, the marketing director for Asia Pacific, to discuss partnership details. At the dinner, Wen Zixin charmed Mister Xu, introducing herself as the company's spokesperson and expertly navigating the conversation, leaving a positive impression.
Later, at a family dinner, Ning Weixuan complained to her brother, Ning Weijin, about her bad mood. She brought up Zheng Dingding's recent breakup and reluctance to start a new relationship. Ning Weixuan playfully accused her brother of being overly confident, asserting that he needed to work harder to win Zheng Dingding's affection, as his feelings were evident.
She then mentioned inviting Zheng Dingding to open a studio in her cafe, suggesting it would allow her brother more opportunities to see Dingding. Ning Weixuan then feigned distress, lamenting that she had spent all her savings on the cafe, implying Dingding would need to cover her own renovation expenses. Ning Weijin, after a moment, asked how much more was needed, and Ning Weixuan promptly requested 100,000 yuan.
As he agreed, she promised to do the dishes and added that Zheng Dingding had said she would consider Ning Weijin first if she ever decided to pursue a new relationship. Following the successful business dinner, Wen Zixin suddenly fainted as Chen Xun was seeing her off. He rushed her to the hospital where a nurse reprimanded him for letting her drink, explaining that Wen Zixin had recently undergone surgery and needed rest.
Inside the hospital room, Chen Xun apologized to Wen Zixin, who was recuperating. She reassured him, saying she had thought she was fine, and expressed gratitude for his concern. Ning Weijin, passing by, overheard Doctor Lin discussing "No.36," who he identified as Wen Zixin. He discreetly inquired about her medical history from Doctor Lin. Outside the hospital, Ning Weijin found a visibly drunk and unsteady Chen Xun.
He offered Chen Xun water to help him sober up, then directly asked if Wen Zixin's surgery was related to him and if Zheng Dingding was aware of the situation. Chen Xun, angered, told Ning Weijin not to speak carelessly. He then questioned Ning Weijin's relationship with Zheng Dingding, to which Ning Weijin simply replied, "friends." Chen Xun mocked Ning Weijin's medical profession, insinuating that doctors took advantage of patients after seeing their private details.
Ning Weijin sternly warned him not to insult his profession. Chen Xun retaliated by declaring Zheng Dingding his girlfriend and ordering Ning Weijin to stay away from her. Ning Weijin calmly reminded Chen Xun that they had already broken up. As their argument escalated into a near physical fight, Shu Yiran quickly intervened, pulling Ning Weijin away. Before being led off, Ning Weijin issued a final warning to Chen Xun: he would not tolerate Zheng Dingding being hurt again.
Later, at Chen Xun's office, his employees gossiped about Ning Weijin, noting his popularity and the "Most Handsome Doctor" award he had won. Chen Xun, visibly irritated, ordered an employee to investigate Zheng Dingding's plans for her studio. Wen Zixin then arrived, claiming she was bored and had come to visit. She informed Chen Xun that she had already sought out Ning Weijin and confirmed his interest in Zheng Dingding.
She offered to continue probing Ning Weijin's intentions, suggesting Zheng Dingding was naive and easily manipulated. Chen Xun, however, firmly told Wen Zixin to stay out of his personal affairs. Zheng Dingding was at home, calculating her finances and pondering if she had enough funds for her design studio, specifically to pay Ning Weixuan for the space. Suddenly, a drunken Chen Xun knocked on her door. She let him in and offered him tea.
Chen Xun reminisced about Zheng Dingding's past kindness when he was drunk, then revealed that Wen Zixin was in the hospital. He explained that he owed Wen Zixin a great deal: he had recently discovered, during a business trip to Shanghai, that she had been pregnant with his child when they broke up years ago. He had been unaware at the time. Wen Zixin's mother had forced her to have an abortion, which tragically led to habitual miscarriages.
Chen Xun recounted finding Wen Zixin in despair after she had lost her second child, which also caused her engagement to be canceled. He stated that he felt responsible and was committed to helping her recover, assuring Zheng Dingding that he and Wen Zixin were "just friends" and he would not repeat past mistakes. Zheng Dingding expressed her understanding but voiced doubts about Wen Zixin's true intentions.
She politely refused Chen Xun's suggestion to return to the company, stating she had her own career aspirations. When Chen Xun's phone rang with Wen Zixin's call, Zheng Dingding urged him to go back to her. Disappointed, Chen Xun left. Ning Weixuan, needing more money for her cafe, concocted a scheme to get funds from her brother.
She sent a voice message to Zheng Dingding, which she intended for Ning Weijin to hear, falsely claiming she was broke and couldn't pay for Dingding's goods, thereby subtly hinting that Ning Weijin would need to cover the costs. Ning Weijin, upon hearing Zheng Dingding's name, reluctantly transferred the money to his sister. Meanwhile, Zheng Dingding was discussing Chen Xun and Wen Zixin with her friend, Xiao Feng, while packing goods.
Xiao Feng advised Zheng Dingding not to believe Chen Xun, arguing that ex-partners should have no contact and that Wen Zixin's reappearance after so many years was suspicious, likely motivated by Chen Xun's current success. However, Zheng Dingding defended Chen Xun, explaining his strong sense of responsibility, recalling an instance where he almost sold his blood to pay severance to his struggling team. Xiao Feng then pointedly asked why Chen Xun had been so irresponsible towards Zheng Dingding.
Xiao Feng also teased Dingding about her impending studio opening at Ning Weixuan's cafe, linking it to Ning Weijin. Ning Weijin arrived at Ning Weixuan's cafe early, ostensibly to oversee his investment, but secretly hoping to see Zheng Dingding. Ning Weixuan, recognizing his true motive, humorously chided him. Unfortunately, Zheng Dingding was delayed by a traffic accident while delivering a large box of goods to the cafe.
By the time she arrived, Ning Weijin had already received a call from the hospital and left. Ning Weixuan lamented their repeated missed encounters. Zheng Dingding expressed her disappointment, as she had hoped to thank Ning Weijin in person for his help. Ning Weixuan advised her against sending a gift through her, claiming her brother was "cheapskate" and would perceive it as insincere. Zheng Dingding, pleased with the spacious studio upstairs at Ning Weixuan's cafe, began planning its design.
She then quickly left to buy groceries, as her parents were coming for dinner. A sudden downpour forced her to take shelter in a nearby library. Meanwhile, Ning Weijin received a call informing him that he was no longer needed at the hospital. He stopped his car and entered the library to read. There, he found Zheng Dingding fast asleep on the floor. He quietly sat beside her, picking up a book.
After about an hour, Zheng Dingding awoke, startled to realize how much time had passed. She exclaimed that she had forgotten to buy groceries for her parents' dinner. Ning Weijin, who had been sitting beside her, offered to drive her. He took her to the supermarket and then dropped her off at home. Inside, Zheng Dingding gave Ning Weijin a small stack of colorful sticky notes, suggesting he use them to organize patient files.
She thanked him for his consistent care and wondered why he was so kind to her, given their purely professional acquaintance. Ning Weijin hinted that they had met before and she had once helped him, but he playfully kept the details secret, saying it wasn't the right time to reveal them. As he was about to leave, Zheng Dingding's parents arrived.
They were surprised to see Ning Weijin and enthusiastically insisted he stay for dinner, despite his polite attempts to decline. During the meal, Zheng Dingding's mother inquired about Ning Weijin's family. He shared that his mother had passed away when he was young, a challenging period that someone had helped him navigate. Zheng Dingding's parents offered their condolences and changed the subject. Meanwhile, Chen Xun took Wen Zixin to view an apartment in a high-grade residential area.
Wen Zixin expressed her desire for a change of environment, feeling like a "joke" in her current social circle. Chen Xun offered to pay the rent, but she declined, stating her endorsement fees were sufficient. She then requested that Chen Xun rent the apartment in his name to protect her privacy, which he readily agreed to handle. Later, Wen Zixin cooked dinner for Chen Xun.
She expressed deep regret for leaving him in the past and for not being by his side during his difficult times, hinting at a desire to rekindle their relationship. Chen Xun, however, firmly reiterated that he could only offer financial support as "compensation" and nothing more. He set a clear boundary, telling her not to do anything that would harm Zheng Dingding, emphasizing that it was his "bottom line." Wen Zixin verbally agreed, claiming she viewed Zheng Dingding as a dear sister, but discreetly clenched her fist under the table.
Episode 5 Recap
Zheng Dingding’s parents prepared to leave, and her mother affectionately reminded her to cherish Ning Weijing. She told Dingding that she was the one who loved her the most, followed by her father. If there was a man whose love for Dingding could surpass her father's, that would make her truly happy. She wished for Dingding’s happiness. As Dingding tidied her room, she discovered a note from her father.
Knowing she had little savings and urgently needed money to open her studio, he had secretly left her a bank card. Moved to tears, Dingding realized that Chen Xun could never compare to her father's selfless love. Upon returning home, Ning Weixuan immediately questioned Ning Weijing about his whereabouts. He calmly informed her that he had dinner at Zheng Dingding’s house and even met her parents.
Ning Weixuan instantly became excited, playfully wondering how her “insulator of love” brother had progressed to meeting parents. Alone in his room, Ning Weijing picked up a cat plush toy and considered telling Zheng Dingding about their past connection, remembering how she had helped him during a difficult time. Later, Zheng Dingding helped Ning Weixuan prepare items for the cafe. Ning Weixuan casually chatted, urging Dingding to give her brother a chance.
Dingding expressed skepticism about Ning Weijing never having been in a relationship, given his excellent qualities. Ning Weixuan assured her that many girls had pursued him over the years, but he had shown no interest. She revealed that Shu Yiran, Ning Weijing’s college classmate, was particularly persistent. However, Shu Yiran viewed everyone except Ning Weijing as "retarded morons," often criticizing Ning Weixuan herself, which made Ning Weixuan dislike her.
During their conversation, Zheng Dingding received a message from a client interested in a large order, requesting a meeting in two hours. Zheng Dingding rushed to the badminton court for the meeting, only to discover the client was Wen Zixin. Despite Dingding's protestations about having just had surgery and being unable to exercise, Wen Zixin insisted they play a few rounds. Dingding reluctantly agreed, but soon the pain forced her to drop her racket.
Wen Zixin apologized, feigning concern, but then declared her intention to reunite with Chen Xun. She told Dingding that Chen Xun’s current hesitation was merely due to guilt and dependency, which would fade with time. Dingding, though she had moved on from Chen Xun, refused to let Wen Zixin hurt him again, recalling his suffering after their previous breakup.
Wen Zixin countered by bringing up a past incident involving a child, subtly implying that Chen Xun would always prioritize her due to their shared history, asserting that her reunion with Chen Xun was inevitable. With her wound reopened from playing badminton, Zheng Dingding went to the hospital to see Ning Weijing. He sternly rebuked her for neglecting her health for any reason, but his words, though harsh, conveyed genuine warmth and concern.
Later, Ning Weijing accompanied Dingding to dinner, where Ning Weixuan had arranged a meal with Gao Ren and Shu Yiran. Ning Weijing was meticulous about Dingding’s diet, serving her only vegetables, a gesture Shu Yiran found unusually attentive. Ning Weixuan provocatively suggested this was destiny between Dingding and Ning Weijing, noting that some people, despite knowing each other for years, never spark a connection, visibly irritating Shu Yiran.
Ning Weixuan then announced the real reason for the dinner: to borrow money for the cafe's renovation, as Ning Weijing had already paid the rent. She turned to Gao Ren, who, despite his mock complaints, always indulged Ning Weixuan’s requests. As Ning Weijing walked Zheng Dingding home, she recounted her relationship with Chen Xun. She met him in her freshman year when he was the student union president and basketball team captain.
In her sophomore year, after much hesitation and even drinking beer for courage, she prepared to confess, only to see him appear hand-in-hand with Wen Zixin. Later, when Wen Zixin left Chen Xun, he was at his lowest. Dingding remembered Xiao Feng joking that it was "her turn" now, but Dingding didn't want to be "next in line."
She described a small incident where Chen Xun helped her pick up fallen shopping bags while she was burdened with many, making her feel safe enough to finally confess. Ning Weijing listened, then concluded that Chen Xun didn’t deserve her, remarking that a man shouldn’t let a woman carry so many things while shopping. Dingding, however, felt she didn't deserve Chen Xun. She lamented that despite her efforts, Chen Xun's heart seemed to be drawn back to Wen Zixin.
Although she thought she had moved on, Wen Zixin's declaration of wanting Chen Xun back had reignited her distress. Ning Weijing, observing Dingding's deep feelings for Chen Xun, advised her to talk to him directly. Meanwhile, Gao Ren drove Shu Yiran home and urged her to confess her feelings to Ning Weijing. Shu Yiran believed confessions should come from men and she couldn't bring herself to do it.
Gao Ren revealed that he had originally tried to pursue Shu Yiran but used Ning Weijing as a decoy, offering strategies to help Shu Yiran win Ning Weijing. To his surprise, Shu Yiran, like Ning Weijing, proved to be single-minded, remaining persistent for over a decade, resulting in their trio acting more like brothers than potential lovers. Zheng Dingding called Chen Xun to talk, but Wen Zixin’s sudden scream interrupted the call.
Chen Xun quickly hung up to attend to Wen Zixin, whose mother had suffered a sudden heart attack. Chen Xun drove Wen Zixin back to her hometown to see her mother. After ensuring her mother’s condition was stable, Wen Zixin asked Chen Xun to stay with her for a few days, and he agreed. Shu Yiran asked Gao Ren to find out about Ning Weijing’s relationship with Zheng Dingding.
Ning Weijing had earlier confided in Gao Ren about meeting Dingding twelve years ago, insisting he only wanted to repay her kindness, not pursue a romantic relationship. Gao Ren, however, recognized Ning Weijing’s growing affection for Dingding. Ning Weijing swore Gao Ren to secrecy. Thus, when Gao Ren reported back to Shu Yiran, he merely stated that Ning Weixuan and Dingding had become close friends through shopping, and that was how Ning Weijing knew Dingding.
Zheng Dingding created numerous handcrafted decorations for Ning Weixuan's cafe, saving her a significant amount of money. Ning Weixuan, delighted by Dingding’s talent, went to buy ingredients, intending to personally cook a meal for her. Ning Weijing and Ning Weixuan arrived at the cafe around the same time, but the door was broken. Ning Weixuan was locked outside, while Ning Weijing and Dingding were trapped inside. Dingding urged Ning Weixuan to find a locksmith.
Seeing the two alone, Ning Weixuan considered it a "heaven-sent opportunity." She intentionally claimed there were no locksmiths nearby and decided to search further away, prolonging their isolation. Ning Weijing helped Zheng Dingding with the intricate handiwork, proving that a doctor's precision was well-suited for such tasks. They worked until it was dark, and Ning Weixuan still hadn't returned. Suddenly, the power went out, causing Dingding to tremble with fear.
Ning Weijing recalled a scene from the romance novel his sister had given him the previous day. Although he had initially dismissed such plotlines as foolish, he now found himself wanting to try it. He lit candles and offered Dingding a cake with grape juice. She noted it tasted strangely like wine, but he explained it was simply juice, as he couldn't drink alcohol before an upcoming surgery.
He then leaned in, seemingly about to kiss her, but became flustered and went to the restroom. Ning Weixuan, watching from outside, chuckled, having done all she could, leaving the rest to her brother. As the night wore on, Dingding started to feel dizzy from the grape juice and got sleepy. Ning Weijing gently told her to lie down, promising to break the glass if Ning Weixuan wasn't back by morning.
Episode 6 Recap
Ning Weijin surprised Zheng Dingding with a romantic setup of cake, red wine, and candles. When she got some cake on her lips, he hesitated before reaching out to wipe it away. The sudden touch startled them both, and a flustered Ning Weijin quickly retreated to the bathroom. It was late, and since his sister, Ning Weixuan, still hadn't returned, Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding had to sleep on the sofa.
Ning Weijin didn't like being called "Dr. Ning," so Zheng Dingding asked if he had a nickname. He revealed that his mother used to call him "Little Scarf," and he allowed Zheng Dingding to call him that too. Zheng Dingding found the name endearing and told him, "You are so nice." As Zheng Dingding slept, Ning Weijin, in a moment of hesitation, reached out to touch her hand but quickly withdrew it, much like a shy first love.
Meanwhile, Wen Zixin’s mother’s condition had stabilized in the hospital. Chen Xun was diligently assisting Wen Zixin. Wen Zixin’s mother thanked Chen Xun for his help and apologized for forcing him and Wen Zixin to break up years ago, hoping he wouldn't hold a grudge. Chen Xun assured her he had long forgotten those matters. Later, Wen Zixin spotted a doctor she recognized from a past surgery and grew anxious, fearing Chen Xun might encounter her.
She asked the attending physician about transferring her mother to another hospital, but the doctor advised against it, explaining that her mother’s condition was still under observation and a transfer could be risky. Worried, Wen Zixin then gently persuaded Chen Xun to return to his company, insisting she could manage her mother’s care alone. Chen Xun, noticing Zheng Dingding hadn't contacted him for days, had his assistant, Cat, call her.
Unaware that Chen Xun was listening in, Zheng Dingding casually mentioned she was on a blind date. Enraged, Chen Xun immediately hung up. Indeed, Zheng Dingding was on a date with a "momma's boy" who expressed a desire for her to be a stay-at-home wife and bear many children. Finding him unbearable, Zheng Dingding made an excuse to leave, even suggesting they go dutch for the meal they barely touched.
On her way home, Zheng Dingding called her mother, pleading with her to stop arranging such low-quality blind dates. Her mother, however, urged her to "go for Dr. Ning," highlighting how precious he seemed compared to the recent date. Back at the company, Chen Xun found the office in disarray, with orders slightly declining since Zheng Dingding's departure. He reflected on his breakup with Zheng Dingding and his uncertainty about her relationship with Ning Weijin.
Cat suggested he pursue Zheng Dingding again if he couldn't forget her, but Chen Xun remained conflicted, denying any romantic involvement with Wen Zixin. Zheng Dingding's best friend, Xiao Feng, found a tearful Zheng Dingding watching a movie at home. He arrived with a "Happy Breaking Up" cake to celebrate her "first break-up" formally.
He advised her that the best way to get over a breakup was to exhaust herself by "eating, drinking, and playing," then "sleep well" for three days, promising she'd be "fully revived" afterward. They cut the cake, symbolizing a fresh start, and then spent the day shopping and enjoying an amusement park, which significantly lifted Zheng Dingding's spirits. Preoccupied with thoughts of Zheng Dingding, Ning Weijin invited Gao Ren to a bar.
As doctors, they couldn't drink alcohol, so they sat uncomfortably drinking juice. Gao Ren spotted Zheng Dingding and Xiao Feng on stage, singing "Happy Breaking Up." Xiao Feng had dedicated the song to Zheng Dingding, celebrating her split from her "scumbag boyfriend." Gao Ren mused about Xiao Feng being a potential rival for Ning Weijin. A very inebriated Zheng Dingding, seeing Ning Weijin, called him "Little Scarf" and invited him to join their celebration.
Ning Weijin decided to take her home, leaving a drunk Xiao Feng in Gao Ren’s care. The next morning, Zheng Dingding woke up with no memory of how she got home, vowing never to drink so much again. While brushing her teeth, she noticed a man's shirt hanging in her bathroom, startling her. Just then, Ning Weijin appeared. Zheng Dingding quickly locked the door to compose herself.
Xiao Feng called, jokingly asking if Ning Weijin "made a move" on her, but Zheng Dingding assured him that Ning Weijin had left after dropping her off. It turned out Ning Weijin was in her kitchen, making breakfast. Zheng Dingding, still flustered, asked why he had stayed.
Ning Weijin teased her about her memory loss, then explained that she had vomited all over him the previous night, so he had to wash his clothes at her place and ended up sleeping on her sofa while waiting for them to dry. Soon after, Zheng Dingding’s mother called, announcing yet another blind date arrangement. As Ning Weijin prepared to leave for work, her mother heard his voice and grew suspicious, demanding to know who was at her house.
Zheng Dingding, panicked, fled upstairs and, in a hushed tone, told her mother that it was Ning Weijin and that they were now in a relationship, thus eliminating the need for more blind dates. Her mother was overjoyed. Ning Weijin, having overheard the conversation, was still at the door when Zheng Dingding came back down. She then pleaded with him to pretend to be her boyfriend to appease her mother.
Ning Weixuan was delighted to hear her brother and Zheng Dingding were pretending to be a couple. She believed this was her "love-averse" brother finally "getting enlightened," and planned to "add fuel to the fire" to turn the fake relationship into a real one. She instructed them to sit closer, even placing Ning Weijin’s hand on Zheng Dingding’s shoulder. Both became visibly nervous and sweaty.
Ning Weixuan then provocatively suggested they "kiss each other" for practice to avoid embarrassment in front of their parents. Zheng Dingding nervously considered it but ultimately backed out. Ning Weixuan, however, considered it a good "first step." Later, Ning Weixuan visited Gao Ren at his plastic surgery clinic, where he was flirting with a receptionist. She dramatically rushed over, pretending to be pregnant and accusing him of abandoning her and their child.
The surrounding nurses and doctors looked at Gao Ren with shock, forcing him to pull Ning Weixuan into his office. Once inside, Ning Weixuan informed him about Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding's fake relationship, which Gao Ren also believed would soon become real. She enlisted his help to push the couple together, suggesting they, too, pretend to be a couple to set an example. Ning Weijin examined Zheng Dingding's wound, a result of her previous badminton game.
Zheng Dingding informed him she had an appointment with her mother and worried that Ning Weijin was "too nervous" to convincingly play the part, fearing her "crafty" mother would see through their act. She decided to go alone first and would call him if needed. Before she left, she practiced hugging Ning Weijin, whose arms remained stiff. After she left, Ning Weijin noticed his heart racing at over 130 beats per minute and wondered if he needed an electrocardiogram.
Zheng Dingding's mother, unable to refuse a friend, had tricked Zheng Dingding into another blind date. Upon arriving at the restaurant, Zheng Dingding realized her mother’s deception and reluctantly sat down. The blind date was another "momma's boy" who expressed a desire for a wife who would manage the household and children while he played video games.
Episode 7 Recap
Zheng Dingding's latest blind date proved to be quite eccentric; he was engrossed in his game, expecting her, as the older one, to be obedient and care for him, and even envisioned her raising their future child while he continued playing games without interference. Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan and Gao Ren were demonstrating what a couple should look like to Ning Weijin, calling each other "honey" and intimately feeding each other.
Ning Weijin found their antics disgusting, but Gao Ren insisted that girls fall for such displays, asserting it was an on-the-spot lesson in the "essence of love" to help Ning Weijin learn to pretend effectively. Just then, Zheng Dingding sent an urgent WeChat message to Ning Weijin, complaining that her mother had forced her into another blind date with a "freak." Ning Weixuan was surprised by her mother's persistence, given Zheng Dingding was supposedly with Ning Weijin.
Gao Ren seized the opportunity, declaring it perfect for a "hero saving a beauty" scenario. He quickly looked up "bossy president" lines, demonstrating how Ning Weijin should push Zheng Dingding against a wall in a "kabe-don" move, grab her, kiss her publicly, declare her "his woman," and toss money at the blind date. Ning Weijin, finding the lines cheesy and the money-tossing illogical, reluctantly agreed to try the other parts.
Ning Weijin arrived at the restaurant as the blind date was trying to get closer to Zheng Dingding, suggesting a late-night movie and then his place if she didn't want to go home. Zheng Dingding, seeing Ning Weijin, quickly stood up and moved towards him. Ning Weijin confronted the man, asking where he was taking "his" girlfriend and asserting, "Has nobody ever told you she's my woman?"
He then pulled Zheng Dingding and rushed out of the restaurant, leaving Gao Ren and Ning Weixuan to deal with the confused blind date. As Ning Weijin pulled Zheng Dingding away quickly, her high heels chafed her feet. When she cried out in pain, Ning Weijin, apologizing for not noticing, scooped her into his arms.
Zheng Dingding, feeling awkward and the situation too sudden, asked him to put her down, but he refused, saying, "Don't say no. I don't like to hear it." She found his behavior strange, and he explained that Gao Ren had told him "you girls like it," referring to the "bossy president" style.
Zheng Dingding clarified that such behavior was only appealing in TV dramas or novels, not in real life, making Ning Weijin realize his doubts about Gao Ren's advice were valid. He then offered to carry her on his back because of her scratched foot. Realizing this was all part of their fake relationship, Zheng Dingding thanked him. Ning Weijin stated he always fulfilled promises and offered to take her home.
Still feeling nauseous from the blind date, Zheng Dingding asked to eat something first. She then complimented his "bossy president" act as quite handsome. He recited another line: "From now on in this world, only I can touch you," which made Zheng Dingding laugh. Later that evening, Chen Xun and Cat were working late. Chen Xun believed Zheng Dingding was still awake and decided to visit her.
However, as they approached her home, they saw Ning Weijin dropping Zheng Dingding off. They shared an intimate hug and bid each other "Good night, girlfriend" and "Good night, boyfriend." Witnessing this, Chen Xun was overcome with rage. He sped away, frightening Cat, who tried to calm him down. At a red light, Chen Xun got out of the car, abandoning Cat.
He went to a bar and drank heavily, in his drunken state, he mistakenly grabbed a woman, thinking she was Zheng Dingding. After realizing his error, he sat dejectedly by the roadside and, in his moment of despair, called Wen Zixin. The next morning at the hospital, Ning Weijin's assistants were startled when he entered, expecting his usual strict reprimand for eating in the office.
Instead, he calmly told them to eat slowly, then inquired about a patient's edema and instructed them to monitor the ICU patients after their meal before he proceeded with his ward rounds. The two assistants were left in the office, stunned by "Professor Ning's" uncharacteristic geniality. Meanwhile, Zheng Dingding was packing a completed order when the client messaged to cancel.
The client stated she had found "something better in other shops" and already placed another order, dismissing Zheng Dingding's designs as having "only a few patterns." Zheng Dingding explained the items were customized and asked what she should do with them, offering to customize new ones, but the client refused and requested a refund. Zheng Dingding was deeply disheartened, lamenting that it was a 4,000 yuan order that took her a week to complete.
Chen Xun had spent the night sleeping in his office. Wen Zixin arrived early, offering him honey water, which reminded him of Zheng Dingding. He told Wen Zixin he had seen Zheng Dingding hugging "that doctor," suggesting they were now together. Wen Zixin advised him to move on and offered her support.
Chen Xun, realizing his drunken call to her the previous night had been a mistake, apologized and instructed Cat to book Wen Zixin the earliest flight home, insisting her mother still needed her at the hospital, despite Wen Zixin's assurances that her mother was recovering well. Later, in a company meeting, Chen Xun stressed that Chengpin Life belonged to everyone and urged them to work together to return to normal operations after Zheng Dingding's departure.
He also confirmed that the recruitment for a new General Manager's assistant was underway and promised to treat everyone after work. Distraught by the canceled order, Zheng Dingding confided in Ning Weixuan. She expressed her feelings that her designs were too simplistic and confessed to lacking confidence in her new venture, regretting her impulsive decision to resign and start a business after her breakup.
Ning Weixuan, though unable to help with the unsold items, reassured her that "all things are difficult before they are easy" and that the upcoming café opening, with its numerous cats, would surely spark new product inspirations. Zheng Dingding worried about her invested savings and the money from her father and Xiao Feng if her business failed. Ning Weijin then arrived, having come after his ward rounds to check on Zheng Dingding, offering to help her sell the unsold goods.
Ning Weijin took Zheng Dingding to his university, where he was highly popular, with many auditors attending his lectures. He set up her dolls at a market stall. However, students passing by only greeted "Professor Ning," none stopping to look at Zheng Dingding's creations. Ning Weijin concluded that the students were intimidated by him and decided to leave, encouraging Zheng Dingding to "come on." As soon as Ning Weijin left, customers started approaching Zheng Dingding's stall.
She offered a discount to her first customer, and soon a crowd of students rushed to buy her handmade items, which she also promoted as customizable and mentioned her cat café. Within an hour, all her goods were sold out in a "shopping rush." Zheng Dingding was thrilled, attributing the success to the quality of her products, unaware that Ning Weijin had paid his students to buy her items.
Ning Weijin, playing the role of her boyfriend, claimed it was "what a boyfriend should do." Zheng Dingding joked that he was truly "in character" and offered to treat him to dinner. While strolling through the campus playground, a football flew towards them. Ning Weijin quickly shielded Zheng Dingding. However, in her attempt to block the ball, Zheng Dingding stretched too hard, irritating her previous wound. Ning Weijin immediately took her to the hospital.
Upon seeing her injury, Ning Weijin seemed uneasy and abruptly handed her care over to Shu Yiran, instructing Zheng Dingding to always see Dr. Shu for future hospital visits. Zheng Dingding was perplexed by Ning Weijin's sudden decision to switch doctors. During her examination, Shu Yiran noted the wound was red and swollen but not cracked.
She asked Zheng Dingding why Ning Weijin hadn't examined her, and Zheng Dingding revealed that he had merely glanced at it before telling her to put her clothes back on, leaving her puzzled. Shu Yiran mentioned that she and Ning Weijin were college classmates and family friends, explaining their familiarity. Zheng Dingding then asked if Shu Yiran and Ning Weijin were in a relationship, to which Shu Yiran replied they were just friends.
That night, Gao Ren was at a bar, sipping a non-alcoholic drink called "Desire Nothing," when Feifei, a woman he had previously flirted with, confronted him. Unable to shake her off, Gao Ren desperately called Shu Yiran for help, but she refused, citing her shift and telling him to handle his own problems. He then called Ning Weixuan, who promptly arrived, looking stunning in a black slip dress, immediately captivating the attention of many men.
Gao Ren proudly introduced her as his girlfriend, Ning Weixuan. Feifei remained skeptical, so Ning Weixuan, to prove their relationship, suggested they share a "French kiss" with "Little Renren" (Gao Ren). Gao Ren tried to back out, accusing her of trying to "get rid of me as soon as I had done my job." Ning Weixuan reminded him of her efforts, wearing her "favorite dress" just for "a cup of juice."
After leaving the bar, Gao Ren suddenly performed a "kabe-don" on Ning Weixuan and leaned in for a kiss. Startled, Ning Weixuan covered her mouth. Gao Ren then took a comical picture of her, declaring it "tit for tat" for her earlier stunt, and told her to watch fewer dramas. Ning Weixuan called him a "bastard," reminding him he had "cried for my help" and promised to grant her any wish if she helped him get rid of Feifei.
Gao Ren conceded but tried to "change the requirement," which Ning Weixuan firmly refused. Later, Cat received an invitation for the opening ceremony of "Dingding's studio." He asked Chen Xun if he would attend. Chen Xun replied he had a business meeting with Mr. Jia that Saturday and wouldn't be able to make it, instructing Cat to send a flower basket from "friends from Chengpin Life," rather than in his own name.
Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan was struggling to fit her tall server, Yunsheng, into a cat costume. She decided to make Gao Ren wear it to greet guests on opening day. Gao Ren protested, complaining about the heat and the "stupid" appearance of the costume. Ning Weixuan proposed a solution: "ice packs" around his waist and "small electric fans" on his ears to create a "private air-conditioned room."
She also argued that Yunsheng, being handsome, needed to show his face to attract customers, implying Gao Ren's face was not as crucial. Gao Ren felt insulted and again refused, but Ning Weixuan reminded him of his promise to do "whatever I ask" if she helped him with Feifei. Gao Ren reluctantly agreed, still grumbling about the heat and the costume's foolishness.
Ning Weixuan then made him put on the headgear and, when he tried to take it off, threatened to tell Ning Weijin that he had "force-kissed me," a fabricated lie to force his compliance. Gao Ren, frustrated, allowed her to take a picture of him in the costume. On the opening day of the Good Time café, Zheng Dingding overslept due to nervousness and only managed to fall asleep at 4 AM.
Xiao Feng picked her up, teasing her for being late to her own studio's opening as they rushed to the cafe. Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran arrived to congratulate Ning Weixuan, who jokingly asked Ning Weijin for a gift. Gao Ren, wearing the cat costume, stood outside, distributing 5% discount VIP cards to welcome customers. Inside, Zheng Dingding's handmade items were very popular, with Shu Yiran praising her craftsmanship.
Shu Yiran noticed a Shrimp Ball doll on Zheng Dingding's bag and recalled that Ning Weijin had owned an identical one "for quite a long time." Zheng Dingding confirmed she made the doll and had given one to Ning Weijin. The realization prompted Shu Yiran to ask if Zheng Dingding and Ning Weijin had known each other prior to their current "relationship." Before Zheng Dingding could answer, Xiaolei arrived with cookies.
Episode 8 Recap
Shu Yiran complimented Dingding on her "sweet talks" and remarked, "No wonder Ning Weijin likes you." Seeing a cat doll on Dingding's bag, Shu Yiran asked if Dingding made it, which she confirmed. Shu Yiran then remembered Ning Weijin also had an identical one, which she thought he had "from long ago." When asked if it was the same, Dingding suggested they just "look similar," and Shu Yiran asked if Dingding and Ning Weijin had met before.
Ning Weixuan then appeared, calling "Yiran" and inviting her downstairs to try some cookies she had just baked. Later, Gao Ren, clearly exhausted, complained to Ning Weijin about Ning Weixuan, accusing her of making him wear a heavy cat mascot costume in the scorching sun without water, leaving his arms aching. He dramatically claimed he must have "owed" the siblings in a past life.
Ning Weijin dismissed his complaints, suggesting the job suited Gao Ren and that he was "simply making fun" of him. Ning Weijin then confided in Gao Ren, admitting he could no longer perform examinations on Dingding, explaining that when she takes off her clothes, he gets flustered and "dare not see her." A flashback showed Ning Weijin flustered during a medical examination, telling Dingding to "put your clothes on and come out."
Gao Ren congratulated his friend, joking that Ning Weijin had "finally" discovered "the concept of women." Gao Ren, proud of his own professionalism, stated that to him, human bodies are merely "collections of organs." A flower basket arrived with a card that read "From: Chen Xun," whom Ning Weixuan immediately labeled as "Dingding's scum ex-boyfriend." A man, Cat, who delivered the flowers, introduced himself as acting on behalf of "our boss," Chen Xun, whom he claimed was "Dingding's boyfriend."
Cat then asked Ning Weijin, who was blocking the entrance with Gao Ren, who he was. Following his understanding of how to "be tough" and "show his manhood," Ning Weijin boldly told Cat to relay to his boss that "Dingding is my girlfriend now. So he'd better stay away from her." Cat called Ning Weijin "an actor" and tried to push past Gao Ren, demanding to see Dingding. Gao Ren exclaimed, "Hey, you hit me?"
and Ning Weijin firmly told Cat to "Apologize to my friend." Cat refused, insisting on being let in. The commotion drew Dingding and Ning Weixuan outside. Ning Weixuan learned from Yunsheng, a waiter, that her brother was "in conflict with someone." Dingding confronted Cat, asking why he "hit him." Cat explained that Ning Weijin had "stopped me from seeing you," insisting that his boss, Chen Xun, was her boyfriend.
Ning Weijin then reiterated, "As your current official boyfriend, of course I should prevent your ex from disturbing you again." Cat turned to Dingding, asking if she was "really with him now," and reminded her that Chen Xun was still waiting for her. Ning Weixuan interrupted, declaring, "Can't you see Dingding is my sister-in-law now?" and ordered Cat to tell Chen Xun "don't come to us again."
Ning Weijin then kissed Dingding on the forehead and quickly pulled her away from the cafe. Outside, Dingding asked where they were going. Ning Weijin explained he sensed she was confused about how to respond, so he "just took you out." Dingding, while admitting she was "just confused," noticed Ning Weijin's injured face, but he assured her, "It's okay. I'm fine." Dingding then reminded him, "We are just faking our relationship. It's just a show.
Please don't take it too seriously." Ning Weijin simply replied, "I know." Deciding to head home due to the awkwardness, Dingding asked Ning Weijin to apologize to Ning Weixuan on her behalf. In the car, Gao Ren, wincing from his aching arm, thanked Shu Yiran for driving him home and offered to buy her lunch. Shu Yiran, clearly upset, questioned how Ning Weijin and Dingding could "really" be together, wondering, "What's so special about that woman?"
Gao Ren then confessed the truth: "In fact, they're just pretending." He explained that Dingding's mother was "pushing on her marriage," leading Dingding to ask Ning Weijin to pose as her boyfriend. A surprised Shu Yiran asked how he knew, and Gao Ren revealed that Ning Weijin himself had told him and "even asked me about how to do it."
When Shu Yiran asked why he hadn't told her sooner, Gao Ren said he didn't want her to "go mad" and reassured her, "Don't worry. It's not real." Shu Yiran, satisfied, agreed that "How could these two come together?" and reiterated her offer to treat Gao Ren to lunch, who was "starving." Cat called Chen Xun to report on the situation. Chen Xun immediately scolded him, "Who told you to hit people?
Ridiculous," urging Cat not to "make me worry again." Cat explained that the doctor had blocked his way. When asked "Now what?" Chen Xun replied he would "deal with it when I'm back." Cat then confirmed that "Dingding is in relationship with that doctor." Annoyed, Chen Xun curtly told him, "No more trouble, okay? Bye," and hung up. Cat was left to lament that "All I did was for you."
Ning Weixuan searched for Gao Ren, asking where he had been and why he hadn't answered her calls. Gao Ren replied he "had lunch with my friend," confirming it was with Shu Yiran after Ning Weixuan's persistent questioning. Gao Ren then complained about Ning Weixuan, contrasting her treatment of him with Shu Yiran, who "won't ask me to wear such a heavy costume in such a hot summer day with no water supply," which had left his arms sore.
Ning Weixuan, relenting, acknowledged he "worked very hard today" and offered him a massage using "new techniques" as a token of her "appreciation." Despite initially refusing, Gao Ren eventually relented, enjoying the massage and praising her as "a pro." He even suggested she expand her skills to include "Thai and aromatherapy. . . and oil massage." Ning Weixuan teased him about his "knowledgeable and experienced" background in massages, to which he quickly retorted that he only "heard about it."
Ning Weixuan then slyly asked, "Do you want me to do it for you everyday?" Gao Ren, sensing a trap, downplayed the massage, saying, "Honestly, it's just so-so." After some banter, Gao Ren offered to treat Ning Weixuan to dinner. While she went to "wash my hands" before they left, Gao Ren made a quick escape, claiming he was going to "get the car," leaving Ning Weixuan to call out, "You big pig's trotter!"
Ning Weixuan praised Ning Weijin, saying he was "super cool" and acted "just like Dingding's proper boyfriend," admitting she "almost believe[d]" he was her "true boyfriend." Ning Weijin simply reiterated, "I was performing," to which Ning Weixuan joked, "Such a pity you're not an actor." She then asked when their "show" would end, openly suggesting they "should become a real couple" as they were "a perfect match." Ning Weijin was momentarily distracted by something falling.
Just then, Dingding called Ning Weijin, announcing, "It's the time to test our acting skills." At dinner, Dingding's mother asked Ning Weijin, "How long have you been with Dingding?" Dingding quickly prompted Ning Weijin, stating, "We've been together for more than half a month," which Ning Weijin confirmed. Dingding's father noted this coincided with "the time when Dingding just had her operation done," asking if they had "been together since then."
Ning Weijin then received a phone call from "Professor Yang" about a "class switch" and temporarily excused himself. With Ning Weijin gone, Dingding's parents relaxed, claiming they were "exhausted." Dingding questioned if they were "interrogating him," but her mother explained it was their "first meeting with Dr. Ning" and they wanted to convey they were "a well-educated family" and "don't want to embarrass you." She revealed they had "spent the whole night rehearsing" proper etiquette, pointing to her "red eyes."
Upon learning that Ning Weijin was "some professor of some University of Medical Sciences," Dingding's mother declared, "Dingding, all I want is him to be your husband. If you dare marry someone else, I'll be mad with you," urging Dingding to "grasp this opportunity." When Ning Weijin returned, he continued a phone conversation, mentioning "Thursday's fine" for some professional matter. Dingding's mother praised him for being "young yet promising."
She then directly questioned his choice to specialize in the "galactophore department," given he was a man and it involved "women's most private parts," demanding a "proper explanation." Ning Weijin calmly explained his motivation: "Because someone from my family died because of breast cancer. That's why I focused on this study." Dingding's mother immediately apologized for her "rude" question, with Dingding's father also chiming in to scold her.
As Dingding's parents departed in a taxi, they warmly invited Ning Weijin to visit their home, referring to him as "family." Dingding reminded her parents to "take care" on their way. Once they were out of sight, Dingding pulled her hand away from Ning Weijin, excitedly exclaiming, "We did it!" She thanked him, praising his performance by saying, "you acted really well." Ning Weijin, however, was serious, asking, "When will this show end? . . . Can you tell me?"
Later, Ning Weijin recounted to Ning Weixuan that Dingding had said, "Our performance is a show for my parents. Since they are satisfied, maybe it's enough for now," to which he had simply replied, "Okay." Upon hearing how Ning Weijin had asked Dingding to end their fake relationship, Ning Weixuan immediately called him an "idiot," exclaiming, "Bro, is there anything wrong with your brain?"
She criticized his method, asking, "How could you ask a girl when does she want to end a relationship?" Ning Weijin, curious, asked if she was "experienced." Ning Weixuan, while admitting to "no real practice," boasted that she knew "the theories well," having gained "knowledge from websites and all the romance novels." She declared there were "so many ways to win a girl's love, except your way of 'our relationship is up to you'."
When Ning Weijin claimed her "theory doesn't work here," Ning Weixuan retorted, "It's not about you. It's about Dingding." She was dismayed that Ning Weijin had agreed to end the pretense, insisting, "It's not okay!" and firmly told him, "you have to listen to me. Or my future sister-in-law will leave you soon." She then directly asked him, "Do you love Dingding?" After his affirmative response, she told him to "Hold on there."
She returned with a stack of books, which she called "the secret dating guides I kept for years," instructing him to "Go through the books. And learn their techniques." Ning Weijin noticed "misspelling" and "ungrammatical sentences," but Ning Weixuan simply told him to "Focus on the gist." Ning Weixuan was astonished that Ning Weijin had finished all the "secret dating guides" overnight, complete with notes, remarking that it was "much easier than writing med reports."
Ning Weijin then listed various categories of women from the books: "The kind and innocent, the icy diva, the inferior and timid, and the sexy Monroe type." When Ning Weixuan asked which category Dingding fit, Ning Weijin replied, "None of them." Ning Weixuan teasingly agreed, saying, "Of course. Because she's so special to you." Ning Weixuan pressed him on why he hadn't had a girlfriend for years.
When he cited being "always busy," she dismissed it, stating his core problem was "passivity." She reminded him that he had never "initiated a date with girls," complimented their appearance, or sent flowers and gifts. Ning Weijin questioned, "Why should I do that?" Ning Weixuan conceded that perhaps "none of them was your right girl" before, but emphasized that "this time is different. It's your Dingding."
She warned him that if he continued to be passive and failed to show "your heart," "someone else will take her sooner or later." She advised him to "ask her out more often, and help her. Find your common interest." As she left, she assigned him the task of washing the dishes. The cafe received many new cats. Ning Weixuan, upon discovering them, declared it Ning Weijin's "chance" and urged him to "Drive me to the cafe."
At Habitat Coffee, Dingding found the cats "so cute," and Ning Weixuan invited her to "Come and join me. Enjoy the time with all the kitties around." A staff member, concerned about business, reminded Ning Weixuan, "It's late. Should we open the cafe now?" Ning Weixuan, seemingly "controlled by the cats," jokingly replied, "We can't move." Ning Weijin, however, stood outside. When Dingding asked, "Why don't you come in?" he cited "the furs," explaining, "Too many cats.
We cannot remove all the furs." He also advised Dingding not to "wear black dress. Too obvious." Dingding told him to "Take a seat. They need me in there." Back home, Ning Weijin held his cat, Nannan, attempting to get close and asking it, "You think I really wanna kiss you?" Ning Weixuan walked in and asked, "Bro, what are you doing to Nannan?" Ning Weijin, flustered, replied he was "S. . . Studying."
Ning Weixuan quickly surmised, "Do you wanna kiss Nannan?" She teased him, observing that "Petting a cat in midnight. That's not what you will do." She then concluded that "It must because of Dingding's love for cats. So you want to learn about it tonight. I know you are serious this time." Ning Weijin told her to "Get away, you talk too much," but Ning Weixuan, undeterred, urged him, "Please marry Dingding and make her my official sister-in-law.
I won't accept anyone else except her." Chen Xun arrived to pick up Wen Zixin and her mother from the hospital. Wen Zixin's mother thanked him, remarking that he still "cares about you," and that he had visited her during her hospitalization. Wen Zixin also thanked him. Chen Xun realized he had forgotten some medication and went back to get it, telling Wen Zixin to help her mother rest.
While Chen Xun was gone, Wen Zixin's mother asked her if she "really want[ed] to be with him again," calling Chen Xun a "good man." Wen Zixin responded, "I don't want you. . ." before assuring her mother, "Mum, don't worry. This time, I'm serious." After Chen Xun returned, he encountered Doctor Sun, who had performed Wen Zixin's abortion.
Doctor Sun admonished Wen Zixin for not getting "constantly health checks" after her "not perfect" operation, saying he had "been worried about you." Wen Zixin quickly tried to usher her mother away, claiming her mother "feels weak right now" and they would "come to you next time." Chen Xun, sensing something was amiss, discreetly approached Doctor Sun to inquire about Wen Zixin's operation. Doctor Sun casually mentioned it was "one year ago" and reiterated the need for regular check-ups.
Chen Xun's face registered shock upon hearing "one year ago." The Dean informed Ning Weijin about a breast cancer project, noting that "Half of the topics. . . were initiated by the Cleveland Medical Center." He explained that their hospital had been invited and he had "added you to the candidate list," but stressed that "the final offer depends on your effort."
Ning Weijin was engrossed in something on his phone, which he vaguely described as "Work" when Ning Weixuan inquired. Stopping her from leaving, he asked, "Where do you usually go when you want to hang out with your friends?" Ning Weixuan immediately suspected he meant "a date," but he insisted he meant "Just hang out." She then playfully asked if he had "finally realize[d] that you're in love, and about to go after Dingding?"
Ning Weijin, annoyed, told her to "Stay on the topic. Stop your nonsense." Ning Weixuan then suggested "a restaurant that's in trend now," describing it as "a must-go for a date," and promised to "text you the address later." When he asked for "Any other place you will go?" and insisted she "list them all," Ning Weixuan dramatically declared, "For the sake of my brother, I can devote everything I have."
Wen Zixin informed Chen Xun that her mother "not very well these days" and she wanted to "invite her to my home so that I can take care of her." Chen Xun responded coldly, "I'm sorry, Zixin. Sorry I cannot take care of you two any longer." He presented her with 500,000 yuan, stating it "should make your life easier for a while."
He reminded her of her "five-year contract with the company," assuring her she wouldn't "worry about your income in the next five years." He then declared, "That's pretty much all I can do," and announced, "My flight is in the evening. I have to go." Wen Zixin desperately demanded a "reason" for his abrupt departure, asking, "What's wrong with you?"
Chen Xun initially replied, "You can just think it as I could not go over the past," but when Wen Zixin dismissed these as "excuses" and demanded "the true reason," he confronted her directly. " The aborted child, Was he my child?" he asked, pointing out, "It's one year ago, Wen Zixin. We had already broken up for more than a year. Now tell me. How could that be my child?"
Wen Zixin, aghast, asked "What do you mean by that?" Chen Xun calmly stated, "I don't blame you. . . . That's your way of doing things." He reaffirmed that he would honor his promise regarding her company contract but unequivocally declared, "from now on, I don't want to see you again." Wen Zixin pleaded with him to stop and "Let me explain," insisting, "I wasn't supposed to lie.
I mean it, Chen Xun," but Chen Xun walked away, ignoring her cries. On the way to Dingding's cafe, Cat asked Chen Xun if they were returning to the company. Chen Xun stated, "No, to Dingding's cafe," explaining that "It's because you hit people. Now I have to make apologies." At Habitat Coffee, Ning Weixuan was coaching her staff on hospitality, demonstrating, "Good day, welcome to Habitat Coffee. We offer free cat-petting service here. Are you ready to order?"
Chen Xun entered with flowers and asked, "Hello, does Dingding work here?" Ning Weixuan replied that Dingding wasn't there yet and offered to "take a message for you if you want." Chen Xun asked her to "send these flowers to her." Recognizing him, Ning Weixuan pointedly asked, "Are you Chen Xun?" Upon his confirmation, she branded him as "the scum who dumped your girlfriend for your ex." Chen Xun inquired about Dingding's arrival time, stating he would "wait here."
Ning Weixuan retorted, "Everyone's welcomed here except a scum." Chen Xun challenged her, asking if she "know[s] anything between Dingding and me" and if her manager had taught her to "respect your guest," demanding to know, "Where's your manager?" Ning Weixuan proudly announced, "Excuse me, I'm the manager here. Can I help you?" and sternly told him, "I'm sorry. Could you please leave now? Or I have to do something not lady-like." Chen Xun agreed to leave.
As he walked out, Ning Weixuan couldn't resist a final jab, thanking him by saying, "It wouldn't be that easy for my brother to become Dingding's boyfriend, if you were not a scum." Chen Xun stopped, asking, "Your brother? He's the doctor, right?" Dingding dreamt she was at her wedding, and just as the officiant announced, "Now you can kiss your lover," Ning Weijin, whom she affectionately called "Little scarf," burst in.
He confronted Chen Xun, telling him to "Let her go," before taking Dingding's hand and running away with her. Dingding joyfully abandoned her bouquet and left with Ning Weijin, even locking Chen Xun inside the church. As they ran through a grassy field, Dingding again called out to him, "Little scarf, why are you here?" Suddenly, Ning Weijin transformed into a small cat. This startled Dingding awake. Still disoriented, she wondered, "What's the heck? How could I dream about Dr. Ning and Meow?" concluding she must be "crazy" for having such thoughts.
Episode 9 Recap
Ning Weixuan aggressively confronted Chen Xun at the cafe, calling him a "bad man" and denying him entry. She sarcastically thanked him for his past actions, which she claimed made it easier for her brother to pursue Dingding. After Chen Xun left, Ning Weixuan instructed a staff member to discard the flowers he had brought. Dingding arrived shortly after, picked up the flowers from the trash, but then found a card inside bearing Chen Xun's name.
Ning Weixuan apologized, explaining she thought it best for Dingding to cut ties with Chen Xun since they had broken up. However, Dingding felt disrespected, asserting that her relationship with Chen Xun was her own business and that driving away her friend without her knowledge was wrong.
Ning Weixuan countered, asking why Dingding still considered Chen Xun a friend when she was so close to Ning Weijin, mentioning their "meeting parents and pretending to be a couple," and even a kiss. Dingding dismissed the kiss as merely acting, but Ning Weixuan insisted that Dingding must harbor feelings for her brother to have accepted it. Flustered, Dingding left the cafe. Worried that Dingding was angry, Ning Weixuan pleaded with her brother, Ning Weijin, to apologize on her behalf.
Ning Weijin initially chided her for interfering, but Ning Weixuan explained her actions were solely to prevent Dingding from reconnecting with Chen Xun. Ning Weijin then called Dingding, inviting her to dinner to apologize on Ning Weixuan's behalf. Dingding initially declined, citing tiredness, but Ning Weijin revealed he was already at her doorstep. He took her to a popular "in trend" restaurant, a place he mentioned Ning Weixuan had recommended as a good dating spot.
Just as Dingding was about to address their relationship, a person at a nearby table fainted. Ning Weijin, a doctor, immediately took charge, clearing the crowd to ensure air circulation and instructing Dingding to call an ambulance for Vipcake on Shushan Road. He administered available medication and provided emergency care, quickly reviving the patient. Dingding expressed profound admiration for Ning Weijin, marveling at how he saved a life in minutes and asking if he ever felt amazing.
Ning Weijin humbly replied that it was merely a doctor's duty, something any intern could do. He explained that doctors often face the impermanence of life, and saving a life is a shared blessing for both the patient and the medical professional. Dingding acknowledged the patient's luck in meeting him, prompting Ning Weijin to ask if she, too, felt lucky to have met him. Dingding affirmed her gratitude for his help.
Seizing the moment, Ning Weijin asked her to forgive Ning Weixuan. Dingding readily agreed, admitting she had forgotten about it and that Ning Weixuan was just defending her. She reiterated how lucky she was to have met him. Meanwhile, Wen Zixin settled her mother into her new room. Her mother asked if Chen Xun was still ignoring her calls, to which Wen Zixin responded that she was going out for "work," though her true intention was to find Chen Xun.
After countless unanswered calls, Chen Xun, irritated by the persistent ringing, finally picked up. Wen Zixin informed him she was downstairs at his company and wanted to talk. Chen Xun curtly stated there was nothing more to discuss and told her to leave before hanging up. After driving Dingding home, Ning Weijin nervously asked if she had truly moved on from Chen Xun, confirming she was single and had no one else in mind.
Once she affirmed this, he confessed his feelings for her and asked her to be his girlfriend. Startled, Dingding initially wondered if he was still acting. Ning Weijin assured her he was serious and offered her time to consider, then suggested she go home. Dingding hurried inside, while Ning Weijin, though nervous, felt a sense of relief having expressed his true feelings.
That evening, Ning Weijin sent Dingding a text, advising her to have a foot bath and hot milk to help her sleep. Back home, Ning Weixuan enthusiastically asked Ning Weijin about his "date," expressing disappointment that he returned early and didn't extend their time together, lamenting that doctors make poor lovers and that her efforts to create an opportunity were wasted. Ning Weijin then revealed he had formally asked Dingding to be his girlfriend at her doorstep.
Ning Weixuan was horrified, deeming it an overly casual confession and speculating that Dingding only agreed to consider it to avoid embarrassing him. She urged her brother to remedy the situation with a more sincere confession. Three days later, Ning Weijin, still awaiting Dingding's reply, sent a WeChat message requesting her answer and constantly checked his phone. During dinner with Gao Ren and Shu Yiran, Gao Ren noticed Ning Weijin's preoccupation and inquired about the urgent message.
Ning Weijin revealed he had confessed to Dingding, which surprised Gao Ren but also elicited his support. Ning Weijin clarified that their "fake relationship" had become genuinely real for him, confirming his seriousness. Shu Yiran, visibly upset by this revelation, questioned what was so special about Dingding that would prompt Ning Weijin to confess. She then abruptly excused herself to the restroom, having lost her appetite.
Dingding, conflicted, sent a message to Ning Weijin asking to meet in person to give him her answer. She then sought advice from her friend, Xiao Feng. Xiao Feng took her to a "relationship consultant" (a friend in disguise) for guidance. The consultant explained that Dingding was the primary giver in her previous relationship with Chen Xun, and his attempts to reconcile were likely born from habit rather than genuine love.
The consultant advised Dingding that a new person, an "antidote" in her life (referring to Ning Weijin), was crucial for her to escape her past pain. However, Dingding remained hesitant, feeling it was too soon after her breakup and that she hadn't fully understood her own feelings. Despite Xiao Feng's encouragement to accept Ning Weijin, Dingding ultimately delivered her full reply to Ning Weijin, apologizing and explaining her inability to be with him at that moment.
She acknowledged that while they didn't dislike each other and he had been a "sunshine" and an "antidote" during her darkest times, giving her the courage to rebuild her life and forget Chen Xun, she was unsure if her feelings for him were pure love. She felt it would be unfair to him to enter a relationship based on gratitude rather than genuine affection. After Ning Weijin left their dinner, Shu Yiran emerged from the restroom.
Gao Ren informed her that Ning Weijin was serious about Dingding. Shu Yiran tried to feign indifference, but Gao Ren urged her to stop hurting herself after so many years and to let go of her feelings for Ning Weijin. He used a metaphor of replacing old music equipment with new, encouraging her to openly confess her true feelings to Ning Weijin to gain closure and give herself an answer, regardless of the outcome.
Meanwhile, Wen Zixin’s mother repeatedly called Chen Xun during his work meeting, telling him that Wen Zixin had fainted. Chen Xun went to see her, finding her weak and refusing to eat after several days. Her mother tearfully begged him to stay with Wen Zixin, even if it meant lying, explaining Wen Zixin's state was partly his fault. Chen Xun agreed to stay temporarily, suggesting they discuss other matters once Wen Zixin recovered.
Wen Zixin, shedding tears then smiling, reminisced about their past, noting how he used to wipe her tears. Chen Xun responded that those times were "all in the past," and she should forget them. Wen Zixin then made a final request: for them to be "boyfriend and girlfriend for one day" before parting ways for good. Later, Ning Weixuan called Dingding, teasing her for avoiding her after rejecting Ning Weijin.
Subsequently, Ning Weixuan called Gao Ren, who attempted to evade her by falsely claiming he was out of town for an "academic exchange." Ning Weixuan, already present, opened his car door and pulled him out, scolding him for lying. She then intercepted a call he received, announcing to the caller that she was Gao Ren's girlfriend to ward them off. She confronted Gao Ren about his consistent excuses for being busy, asserting that he simply didn't want to see her.
Ning Weixuan then passionately confessed her long-standing feelings, stating she had liked him since junior high school when he first visited her home with her brother. She emphasized that she was no longer a little girl but a grown woman who wanted to be his girlfriend. Gao Ren was left stunned and speechless.
Episode 10 Recap
Ning Weixuan forcefully took Gao Ren's phone to confirm he was talking to a client, not a girlfriend. She then confronted him about his constant unavailability, accusing him of making excuses to avoid her. She passionately declared her love, explaining she had been fond of him since junior high when he first visited her home with her brother. She emphasized that she was no longer a child but a woman who desired to be his girlfriend.
Gao Ren, startled, reacted by repeatedly stating "No" and calling her "still that little girl" before quickly getting into his car and leaving without a clear response. Later, a dejected Ning Weixuan shared her experience with Ning Weijin, feeling she had made a similar mistake by confessing at an inappropriate moment. Ning Weijin calmly told her that she wasn't Gao Ren's type, explaining how he observes physiological signs of love.
When Ning Weixuan asked if he used the same method to observe Dingding, he replied that Dingding didn't require it, or that it didn't work on her. Ning Weixuan then realized the irony of a doctor being unable to heal himself, clearly seeing others' romantic situations but not her own.
Ning Weijin, however, confidently stated he could clearly see his own feelings, asserting that for the right person, there is no inappropriate time for a confession, implicitly suggesting Gao Ren was not that person for Ning Weixuan. Despite his advice, Ning Weixuan stubbornly reaffirmed her love for Gao Ren. Meanwhile, Dingding, overwhelmed by Ning Weijin's confession, avoided the coffee shop by telling Ning Weixuan she had a cold and needed rest.
Ning Weixuan, concerned Dingding might be sacrificing her career for Ning Weijin, offered to call her brother for medical advice. Dingding quickly declined, citing a headache, and abruptly ended the call. She resolved to prioritize her studio, believing it was the most important thing to focus on at the moment. Wen Zixin asked Chen Xun to spend one last day with her as a couple.
They took a bus to a restaurant they frequented in college, where the woman boss recognized them. Wen Zixin reminded Chen Xun that this was their final day, and she would no longer pursue him afterward. At the restaurant, Wen Zixin offered Chen Xun some of her noodles, just as he used to help her finish her meals in college.
Chen Xun initially refused, saying he couldn't eat as much as before and needed to maintain his diet, but Wen Zixin insisted, reminding him of their shared past. He reluctantly agreed to eat a portion of her noodles. Shu Yiran and Ning Weijin met at a shopping mall to select a birthday gift for their former professor, Mrs. Zhou, upholding a long-standing tradition.
Shu Yiran had strategically called Gao Ren, who was in surgery, and lied to Ning Weijin that Gao Ren was busy to ensure he wouldn't join them, wanting alone time with Ning Weijin to confess her feelings. After choosing a gift, Ning Weijin's attention was drawn to a massage chair advertisement. He planned to buy one for Dingding, to be placed at Ning Weixuan's coffee shop, as Dingding often spent hours drawing without standing up.
Hearing this, Shu Yiran was spurred to express her emotions. She tried to prompt Ning Weijin to reflect on their nearly decade-long friendship, mentioning Mrs. Zhou's past jokes about them being a couple. Just as she was about to elaborate on her feelings, Ning Weixuan unexpectedly appeared. Ning Weixuan announced that Dingding was sick with a cold, handed Ning Weijin a bag of gifts for the invalid, and urged him to seize the opportunity.
Ning Weijin immediately left to visit Dingding. Shu Yiran, disheartened, lost interest in shopping and returned to the hospital alone, leaving Ning Weixuan puzzled by her mood. Chen Xun booked an entire cinema for Wen Zixin. As they watched the movie, she leaned on his shoulder, reminiscing about their college dreams and noting that many had come true, though their relationship could not revert to its past state. Chen Xun concurred.
Despite a headache, Wen Zixin wished to prolong their time together. They later visited a bridge where they had often gone. The wind was strong, and Chen Xun draped his jacket over her, an action that evoked nostalgic memories. Wen Zixin expressed her gratitude for the happiness he had brought her that day, highlighting that it had transported her back to a cherished, yet irrecoverable, period.
With only three minutes left until midnight, the deadline for their "boyfriend for one day" arrangement, she requested a photo to encapsulate their memories. As the picture was taken, she kissed him, a moment she hoped would forever be etched in her mind. Afterwards, Chen Xun drove Wen Zixin home. He reflected on a difficult time three years prior when his business failed, leading him to Shanghai with meager funds, hoping to see Dingding.
He slept on a park bench, but upon seeing Dingding with someone else, he decided not to disturb her. He recalled a pivotal phone call from Dingding the following day, asking him to return, and recognized its profound impact on his life. He admitted his inability to easily forget Dingding due to her extensive support. Observing Chen Xun, Wen Zixin expressed regret for not being there for him earlier but acknowledged the futility of it now.
She declared her departure and vowed not to trouble him again, having already arranged for a ride. She noted a change in Chen Xun and urged him to move on from certain things. As she left, she told Chen Xun that she would wait for him if he ever decided to return. At Chen Xun's company, a team member reported a significant boost in sales since Wen Zixin became their brand spokeswoman.
The corporate publicity department proposed additional photo shoots and marketing events. Chen Xun approved the plans and decided to personally call Wen Zixin. She let the phone ring for a while before answering, confirming she was feeling much better. Wen Zixin readily agreed to the new photoshoot, suggesting it be scheduled for the day after tomorrow to avoid company delays. Chen Xun remarked that she seemed remarkably different from her past self.
Ning Weijin meticulously reviewed and commented on Dingding's past WeChat Moments, some dating back two years. Gao Ren found this behavior childish, likening Ning Weijin to a shy middle school student, and sarcastically told him to ask his own students for advice on how to successfully pursue a girl. Ning Weijin, undeterred, expressed his intention to directly address his feelings with Dingding, unwilling to leave their relationship ambiguous.
Meanwhile, Dingding discussed Ning Weijin's actions with Xiao Feng, initially dismissing Ning Weijin's deep dive into her social media as mere boredom. Xiao Feng, however, interpreted it as genuine care and a desire to understand her past, confirming Ning Weijin's strong affection.
Dingding confessed her conflicted feelings, acknowledging a previous deep dive into a relationship with Chen Xun that lasted six years, and expressed her reluctance to dive into another one so soon, fearing it would once again distract her from her burgeoning studio. She also admitted to avoiding the coffee shop for a week to prevent awkward encounters with Ning Weijin.
Xiao Feng suggested that Ning Weixuan, whom he called a "fairy," was the ideal person to resolve the awkwardness between Dingding and Ning Weijin. Dingding sent Ning Weixuan a WeChat message inviting her to watch a movie on Saturday afternoon, explicitly asking her not to inform Ning Weijin. Unbeknownst to Ning Weixuan, Ning Weijin was standing right behind her and read the message. He confronted Ning Weixuan, initially feigning ignorance, then threatened to evict her if she didn't assist him.
Citing the irrationality of people in love, Ning Weixuan reluctantly agreed. Later, Dingding waited at the cinema, receiving a message from Ning Weixuan claiming to be stuck in traffic and instructing Dingding to leave her ticket at the gate and enter alone. Dingding found her seat in the dim cinema, feeling a slight discomfort being surrounded by couples. However, Ning Weijin, not Ning Weixuan, sat beside her.
Dingding, surprised, confronted him about Ning Weixuan's perceived betrayal, but Ning Weijin calmly told her to wait until after the movie to talk, so as not to disturb other viewers. He then casually took a handful of her popcorn, prompting Dingding to try and move the bucket away, but he playfully reached for more. Shu Yiran, despite not being naturally athletic, was intensely exercising at the gym and quickly twisted her ankle.
Gao Ren, concerned, reminded her of a past college incident where her competitive spirit led her to be bedridden after a race, preventing her from completing her experiments. He carried her to a resting area and massaged her injured foot. Shu Yiran confided in him, expressing a long-held belief that if Ning Weijin ever sought a relationship, she, having been by his side for years, would be his only choice.
However, she now understood that he simply never considered a romantic relationship with her. Despite this painful realization, Shu Yiran refused to give up, vowing to persist as long as Ning Weijin and Dingding remained unmarried, convinced that no one understood or was better suited for him than she was. Gao Ren, deeply empathizing, acknowledged her plight—wanting to do everything for someone who doesn't need it, and wanting to be good to someone who desires distance.
Offering his shoulder as comfort, he silently pondered his own unrequited feelings, asking, "Why not me?" After the movie, Ning Weijin insisted Dingding have dinner with him, stating it was his turn to treat her. He implied that if she refused, he would simply ask her again the next day. Dingding agreed but stipulated that she would choose the meal.
She opted for fried chicken, her favorite, but Ning Weijin intervened, citing health reasons and prohibiting her from eating oily food. Despite her protest, he meticulously removed all the chicken skin, calling it his "bottom line" as her doctor, and declared that her diet would be under his control if they were in a relationship. Dingding reiterated her strong disinterest in a relationship.
Ning Weijin then earnestly confessed his love, describing it as a "disease" that she was responsible for curing. He presented an ultimatum: either accept his feelings or unequivocally reject him, warning that his preoccupation could compromise his surgical performance and endanger his patients. To make him "give up," Dingding defiantly picked up a piece of chicken skin.
Ning Weijin didn't stop her but calmly recited the exact calorie count of fried chicken skin and the extensive exercise required to burn it off. Faced with these facts, Dingding silently put the chicken skin down. Ning Weijin drove Dingding home, assuring her that he wouldn't frequent the coffee shop unless necessary, allowing her to go to her studio without worry. As he drove away, he saw Chen Xun arrive at Dingding's house in his rearview mirror.
At a loss for what to do, Ning Weijin then noticed Dingding's sketchbook in his car. He seized the opportunity, took the sketchbook, and returned to her doorstep. Entering, he found Chen Xun already inside. Ning Weijin introduced himself as Zheng Dingding's pursuer, to which Chen Xun responded, recognizing him as Dr. Ning and declaring himself Dingding's current pursuer as well.
Ning Weijin retorted that there was no need for shyness, proudly mentioning his own confession, their date, and meeting her parents. Chen Xun dismissed Ning Weijin's claims, pointing out that he was "just a pursuer," to which Ning Weijin quickly countered that Chen Xun was "just an ex-boyfriend."
Episode 11 Recap
Ning Weijin returned Dingding's sketchbook, playfully calling it "Little scarf," and was met by Chen Xun. The two men exchanged a tense greeting, shaking hands while subtly sizing each other up. Ning Weijin introduced himself as Dingding's current pursuer, highlighting that he had already confessed his feelings, gone on dates, and met her parents. Chen Xun, with equal intensity, retorted that a pursuer was not yet a boyfriend. Dingding quickly intervened, urging Ning Weijin to leave before things escalated.
Before departing, Ning Weijin couldn't resist one last jab, reminding Chen Xun that he was merely an ex-boyfriend. Dingding sighed, remarking on their childish behavior, and Ning Weijin told her to call him if she ever faced danger before finally leaving. After Ning Weijin left, Chen Xun immediately questioned Dingding, asking if she had accepted Ning Weijin's advances. Dingding denied it, explaining that she had just started her studio and didn't want to be entangled in a relationship again.
Changing the subject, she inquired about Wen Zixin. Chen Xun revealed that Wen Zixin had suffered a minor concussion and, as a condition for letting him go for good, had asked him to be her "boyfriend for one day," to which he agreed. He then expressed his observation that Wen Zixin seemed to have changed, becoming somewhat similar to Dingding.
Dingding, unfazed, told him that if he had no intention of reconciling with Wen Zixin, then her changes were irrelevant to him. Chen Xun acknowledged her point, admitting his feelings were complicated, but he appreciated her advice to move past it. He then asked if they could still be friends, and Dingding confirmed that they had always been friends, adding that it was perfectly fine for him to be friends with Wen Zixin as well. Chen Xun thanked her.
Later, Ning Weijin found himself obsessively checking Dingding's social media, wondering what she and Chen Xun had discussed. Seeing Chen Xun's photos in her feed only fueled his annoyance. Back at her studio, Dingding was confronted by Ning Weixuan, who, having heard from her brother about Chen Xun's return, was eager for gossip.
To create a distance from Ning Weijin, Dingding falsely claimed she still couldn't forget Chen Xun and might even get back together with him, hoping Ning Weixuan would relay this to Ning Weijin and make him give up. Ning Weixuan then called Gao Ren, but a nurse answered, informing her that Dr. Gao was in surgery. This news sparked a new mischievous idea in Ning Weixuan's mind.
When Gao Ren finished his surgery, he overheard a nurse mentioning a "very arrogant girl" who had called and hung up abruptly. Realizing it was Ning Weixuan, he hurried back to his office, only to find her waiting. Ning Weixuan pressed him, asking if he had considered being her boyfriend.
Gao Ren, startled, retreated, explaining that he viewed her as a child and felt no romantic attraction, calling her feelings an "illusion" and flatly stating he could not love her because she was not his type. Heartbroken, Ning Weixuan burst into tears and ran off, proclaiming her hatred for him. At home, Ning Weixuan asked Ning Weijin if men generally preferred mature women.
Ning Weijin playfully suggested she read more books to "nourish her brain" and stated he didn't care about maturity because he liked Dingding. Ning Weixuan then told him Dingding's fabricated story about still being in love with Chen Xun, which Ning Weijin feigned indifference to. He then asked if Dingding had said anything else, but Ning Weixuan merely encouraged him not to lose hope.
Ning Weijin, shifting focus to his sister's woes, calmly told her that love, or the lack thereof, required no reason. He plainly stated that Gao Ren simply did not like her and advised her to give up. However, Ning Weixuan refused, arguing that love could grow over time and pointing out that Ning Weijin himself hadn't given up on Dingding. Dingding went to the hospital for a follow-up check-up, secretly hoping to avoid Ning Weijin.
Ironically, she encountered him when an elderly patient stumbled. Both Ning Weijin and Dingding rushed to help, but a broken glass cut Ning Weijin's hand. With the interns at lunch, Dingding stepped in to help bandage his wound, despite her discomfort. As she worked, Ning Weijin pressed her, asking if she still couldn't forget Chen Xun. Dingding, her eyes evasive, uttered a "yes," but her rapidly beating heart betrayed her lie.
Ning Weijin pointed out that her reasons for rejecting him constantly changed, none ever being that she disliked him. He concluded that she was simply unwilling to start a new relationship, not that she disliked him, and vowed not to give up, believing time would eventually reveal her true feelings. Dingding attempted to leave, claiming she needed to see another doctor, but Ning Weijin noted it was lunch and she would only be waiting.
Meanwhile, Wen Zixin observed Chen Xun dozing off during a photoshoot. Cat informed her that Chen Xun had been sleeping at the company, avoiding the loneliness of an empty home. Wen Zixin offered him coffee and tried to comfort him, but Chen Xun politely rebuffed her, excusing himself to smoke. Later, she found him drinking alone, admitting he couldn't sleep without it. When she offered to make him honey water, he told her he had thrown the honey away.
Wen Zixin offered to try her hand as an administrative assistant at his company, but Chen Xun dismissed the idea, stating it wasn't a job for her, and left to make calls to suppliers. Back at her studio, Dingding was drawing a small doll she named "Little scarf," inspired by a dream where Ning Weijin had turned into a cat. Ning Weixuan, seeing the doll wearing a doctor's coat, immediately recognized it as her brother, teasing Dingding about her blush.
Ning Weixuan made Dingding promise that if she ever decided to pursue a relationship, Ning Weijin would be her first consideration. Shortly after, Ning Weijin messaged Ning Weixuan, and she concocted a new plan. She lied to Dingding, claiming she had forgotten to close the windows at home and was worried about her cat, Ning Weinan, escaping.
She asked Dingding to go to her house to close the windows, assuring her that Ning Weijin was in surgery and wouldn't be home. Dingding reluctantly agreed. Upon arriving at Ning Weijin's house, Dingding found all the windows securely shut and the cat peacefully indoors. As she chatted with the cat, Ning Weijin suddenly appeared behind her, confirming Ning Weixuan's deception. He explained that his injured hand prevented him from performing surgery.
Dingding tried to leave, but Ning Weijin asked for her help washing his hair, emphasizing his inability to get his hand wet. Hesitantly, Dingding agreed. As she washed his hair, Ning Weijin relaxed, finding comfort in her touch, which reminded him of a kind girl from his childhood. He told Dingding he liked that person and still did.
Confused, Dingding pointed out his conflicting statements, but Ning Weijin seriously affirmed that he never liked people casually, and his feelings for her were genuine. Leaning in, he whispered "I like you" into her ear, causing her to blush deeply and become flustered. Later, Ning Weixuan, who had been researching breast augmentation, asked Dingding about the most irrational thing she had ever done for Chen Xun.
Dingding recounted turning down a coveted toy design job in Shenzhen to stay with Chen Xun after his breakup with Wen Zixin. She expressed no regrets, valuing the beautiful memories and stressing the importance of experiencing crazy love in youth. Inspired by Dingding's words, Ning Weixuan decided to move forward with breast augmentation. She went to the hospital for a physical examination, and seeing her determination, Gao Ren arranged for her to enter the operating room.
In a final attempt to dissuade her, he dismissed the nurses, telling Ning Weixuan directly that he did not like her, and his feelings had nothing to do with Ning Weijin or any physical changes she might make. Despite her efforts, Gao Ren reiterated his firm dislike, leaving Ning Weixuan heartbroken.
Episode 12 Recap
Ning Weijin meticulously selected a casual outfit and waited eagerly at the entrance of the design exhibition. Meanwhile, Dingding, at home, debated whether to dress up elaborately, recalling Ning Weijin's past comment about preferring her most natural self. Before she could decide, Cat arrived at her apartment, bringing a heavily intoxicated Chen Xun. Cat explained that since their breakup, Chen Xun had been unable to sleep without drinking and had been immersing himself in work at the company.
Cat pleaded with Dingding to give Chen Xun another chance, or at least let him stay the night. Dingding, having moved past their relationship, reluctantly agreed to let him stay for just one night, assuring Cat that he would be picked up the next day, which allowed Cat to leave to attend to clients. Chen Xun soon passed out on Dingding’s sofa. Dingding found herself instinctively tending to him, a habit from their past.
Just then, Ning Weijin sent her a message asking about her whereabouts, but quickly retracted it, seemingly realizing it was too pushy. After a moment's hesitation, Dingding left Chen Xun alone and rushed to meet Ning Weijin. When she arrived, the exhibition was already concluding, and she apologized profusely for her tardiness, explaining that something unexpected had kept her.
Ning Weijin, however, expressed only relief, stating he had considered many possibilities for her absence and was simply happy to see her safe. As he offered to take her home, Dingding explained that Chen Xun was at her place, too drunk to leave, and that it would be inappropriate for them to stay in the same apartment. She suggested finding a hotel for the night. Ning Weijin then invited her to his home, mentioning he needed her help with something.
Upon arriving at Ning Weijin's apartment, Ning Weixuan, who had been crying since Gao Ren's rejection, immediately protested, suggesting that if Ning Weijin and Dingding were on a date, they should leave her alone as she was too sad to see them together. Ning Weijin went to make coffee, leaving Dingding to explain to Ning Weixuan that she was only staying because Chen Xun was at her place and Ning Weijin had offered refuge.
Ning Weixuan, however, was upset that Chen Xun had gone to Dingding's home despite their breakup. Dingding attempted to console Ning Weixuan, revealing that she knew about Gao Ren's rejection because he had called Ning Weijin to express his concern. Dingding advised Ning Weixuan that sometimes a firm rejection is better for the person being rejected. This only angered Ning Weixuan, who questioned why Dingding had never "firmly" rejected Ning Weijin, implying Dingding was siding with Gao Ren.
Overwhelmed, Ning Weixuan locked herself in her room. Dingding, feeling she had made things worse, apologized. Ning Weijin, however, assured her it was fine, explaining that some emotional challenges must be faced alone and that Ning Weixuan needed time to process things calmly. He then proposed they make Yangzhou fried rice, inviting Dingding to help him. While cooking, Dingding humorously observed that Ning Weijin was "hard to get along with," playfully suggesting he might be a Virgo.
She then inquired about his friends, specifically Gao Ren and Shu Yiran, and how he felt about his friend rejecting his sister. Ning Weijin smiled, noting that her interest in his friends indicated she was becoming interested in him too. He admitted it was troubling to watch Ning Weixuan pursue a relationship with no future, revealing that Gao Ren already had someone he liked. Dingding, caught off guard, blushed.
Later, Ning Weijin prepared his bed for Dingding, having changed the sheets and covers, as Ning Weixuan still refused to open her door. He also lent Dingding a pair of his pajamas, making her feel embarrassed. Despite his reassurances that he was fine sleeping on the sofa, even having slept on hospital floors during shifts, Dingding spent a restless night, noticing the pleasant scent of his laundry detergent mixed with a hint of perfume.
The next morning, Ning Weixuan emerged from her room to find Ning Weijin and Dingding gone, but they had left her a thoughtful breakfast and a note. Ning Weijin's message encouraged her to stay hydrated and eat fruit to have a clear mind for making sound decisions, while Dingding's note cheerfully reminded her she had to eat well to have the strength to keep on loving. Ning Weixuan, despite her initial grumbling, found the gesture heartwarming.
Meanwhile, Chen Xun woke up alone in Dingding’s apartment, confused. As he was about to leave, he saw Ning Weijin dropping Dingding off. Chen Xun questioned Dingding about why she had not stayed at home. Ning Weijin interjected, stating that since Chen Xun had occupied Dingding's home, she had stayed at his place. Chen Xun, realizing he had caused trouble, apologized profusely, claiming he didn't intend to bother her. Ning Weijin then promptly offered to drive Chen Xun home.
During the drive, Chen Xun challenged Ning Weijin’s intentions, arguing that Ning Weijin hadn't known Dingding long enough. Ning Weijin retorted that despite Chen Xun knowing Dingding for six years and dating her for one, their breakup indicated he had deeply hurt her. He then revealed that his connection with Dingding stretched back further than Chen Xun imagined, but refused to elaborate.
Chen Xun, in turn, warned Ning Weijin that he would be watching him, to which Ning Weijin coolly replied he didn't care, as long as Chen Xun didn't bother Dingding. At Good Time coffee shop, Yunsheng had created a video account featuring the shop's cats, hoping to attract customers and turn it into a popular spot. Dingding enthusiastically agreed it was a brilliant idea and joined Yunsheng and Lei in filming a short video of herself dancing with a cat.
Later, a stunningly beautiful woman with a provocative demeanor arrived at Ning Weijin's clinic for a consultation. She flirtatiously described chest pain that intensified after meeting him, attempting to seduce him with suggestive comments. Ning Weijin, unfazed, redirected her to the cardiology department for her reported arrhythmia and maintained a professional distance. When she insisted he personally examine her breasts, he delegated the task to his assistant, explaining he had an urgent patient to attend to.
Unwilling to give up, the woman followed Ning Weijin to the front desk, grabbing his arm and refusing to let go, even after he warned her he would call security. Just as Ning Weijin was about to call for help, Gao Ren arrived and intervened. He playfully offered himself as a more amenable alternative, describing Ning Weijin as dull and unappreciative of her charms while he himself "couldn't resist temptation."
The woman, frustrated, eventually left, but not before suggesting she would return. Dingding, who had been heading to Ning Weijin's office to deliver a thank-you cake, overheard nurses in the elevator gossiping about a beautiful woman "capturing" Ning Weijin. When she arrived on his floor and saw the woman clinging to his arm, she felt a pang of jealousy and abruptly left the hospital. The seductive woman, meanwhile, called her employer, complaining about Ning Weijin's unresponsiveness and demanding her payment.
Later, Ning Weijin met Gao Ren for lunch in the hospital canteen. Gao Ren, whose eyes were swollen from lack of sleep, admitted Ning Weixuan had cried herself to sleep and that he was in a difficult position, unable to be too harsh or too soft with her. Ning Weijin then directly asked if Gao Ren's refusal of Ning Weixuan was due to his feelings for Shu Yiran. Gao Ren was surprised that Ning Weijin had discovered his secret.
Ning Weijin clarified he had always sensed it but hadn't been certain. Gao Ren, desperate for Ning Weijin to keep his feelings confidential from Shu Yiran, promised to help Ning Weixuan completely give up on him. Ning Weijin, however, predicted that Ning Weixuan was already plotting her next move. He urged Gao Ren to remain steadfast and never develop feelings for Ning Weixuan, regardless of her tactics.
He explained he didn't want Gao Ren to use his sister as a rebound if his pursuit of Shu Yiran failed, calling it the greatest harm he could inflict. Gao Ren agreed, though he remained curious about the "unbridgeable chasm" between Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran, which Ning Weijin dismissed.
Back at Dingding’s studio, Ning Weixuan shared her new "retreat to advance" strategy for Gao Ren, asserting that she would no longer force him to be her boyfriend but would expect him to be present whenever she needed him, just like a brother. Dingding showed Ning Weixuan the cat videos she was making for Good Time coffee shop and her plans to redesign her online shop.
Ning Weixuan then suggested she should serialize her "Little Scarf" comic, believing it could boost her studio. Dingding was hesitant, fearing Ning Weijin's reaction if he knew the character was based on him. Ning Weixuan reassured her, stating that her brother would be delighted, as he had only ever fallen for one girl in his life. Dingding then cautiously inquired about Ning Weijin's popularity with female patients.
Ning Weixuan scoffed, calling him "dangerously handsome" but confirmed his unwavering loyalty to his one true love, which made Dingding blush. Later, Ning Weixuan met Gao Ren again, initiating her new strategy. She declared she would no longer pressure him to be her boyfriend but expected him to act as a "brother," appearing whenever she needed him. Gao Ren saw this as a significant concession, agreeing to her terms as long as he wasn't forced into a romantic relationship.
Ning Weixuan then immediately asked him to drive her to Leijie, a twenty-kilometer journey, to help her pick out coffee cups. Gao Ren grumbled about the distance but eventually conceded. At the store, another woman flirted with Gao Ren, causing Ning Weixuan to get visibly annoyed. She playfully called Gao Ren a "stud" before angrily announcing she no longer wanted to buy the cups. Gao Ren was left exasperated by her sudden mood swing.
Episode 13 Recap
Dingding arrived at the Good Time café, asking if Ning Weixuan was around. Lei, a staff member, informed her that Ning Weixuan was out purchasing coffee mugs. After settling in, Dingding called Xiao Feng, inquiring about the web designer he had recommended. Xiao Feng described the person as wearing a plaid shirt and a hat. Dingding quickly located Li Xiaowen, who introduced himself.
Dingding, surprised to find Li Xiaowen was a man, jokingly chided Xiao Feng over the phone for making such a "sacrifice" for her. Xiao Feng clarified that Li Xiaowen was just a friend and told her not to spread rumors. Li Xiaowen critiqued Dingding's current online store page, stating her aesthetic was outdated and that even middle-aged memes were trendier. Dingding admitted she hadn't received a single order in over a month.
Li Xiaowen agreed to help redesign the page and retake product photos. Meanwhile, Shu Yiran was shopping with Auntie Fei, Ning Weijin's stepmother. Auntie Fei noticed Shu Yiran seemed distracted, assuming it was due to a disagreement with Ning Weijin. She encouraged Shu Yiran to be more proactive in her relationship, but Shu Yiran felt it was useless if Ning Weijin wasn't interested.
Auntie Fei then shared that Ning Weijin and his father, Uncle Ning, were both stubborn, with Uncle Ning missing his son but refusing to call. Auntie Fei suggested Shu Yiran invite Ning Weijin home for Uncle Ning's upcoming birthday, believing it could help mend their father-son rift and impress Ning Weijin. Shu Yiran agreed to try.
Auntie Fei then offered to help Shu Yiran pick out more colorful clothes, remarking that her usual black and white attire wouldn't attract any men. At the hospital, Ning Weijin saw a female patient whose small nodule only required follow-up. The patient, however, persistently tried to get Ning Weijin's private WeChat for consultations. Ning Weijin politely declined, directing her to the hospital's official online consultation channel and then assigning her to another doctor, Ding Yang.
Afterward, Shu Yiran approached Ning Weijin, inviting him to dinner with Uncle Ning and Auntie Fei at her house. He immediately refused, stating he needed to look after his sister, Ning Weixuan, who was upset after breaking up with Gao Ren. Ning Weijin soon brought his cat, Ning Weinan, to the Good Time café. Ning Weixuan, delighted, planned to film videos with Ning Weinan as the star, praising his "high cuteness."
She put cat ear headbands on both Dingding and Ning Weijin. Ning Weijin tried to take his off, but Ning Weixuan insisted it was for promoting Dingding's studio, and Dingding also asked him for help. Ning Weijin complied, and they took many photos and videos. Later, Dingding felt her online store was still missing something. Ning Weijin suggested adding "relevance" by creating a unique story for each toy, explaining that stories would appeal to customers' psychology and drive sales.
Dingding was greatly inspired, recognizing his insight into design and emotion, and complimented him. Ning Weijin playfully remarked that she "shines" when doing what she loves, just like being with someone you truly like, and asked if she was falling for him, making Dingding call him narcissistic. He then suggested more character names for her toys, including "Little Scarf," revealing he knew she had drawn him. Dingding was surprised, and Ning Weijin explained Ning Weixuan wasn't good at keeping secrets.
When Dingding asked if he was angry, he replied by asking if he should be. Ning Weijin drove Dingding home. Dingding tentatively invited him in. He quickly agreed, then immediately changed his mind, saying he was joking and would visit another time. He advised her not to stay up too late.
Once home, Dingding was energized by Ning Weijin's ideas and started creating new designs, incorporating stories and rewatching a video of him playing with the cat, working late into the night. The video of Ning Weijin playing with Ning Weinan quickly went viral online. The Good Time café's popularity surged, and Dingding's online store saw a significant boost in sales. Comments poured in, praising Ning Weijin's charm and inquiring about the cat ears.
Ning Weixuan and the staff encouraged Dingding to link her store to the trending video. Soon after, Dingding received her first large order for customized cat products from a client impressed by her Bai Cha-inspired web design. Overjoyed, Dingding decided to treat everyone to a celebratory dinner. She tried to invite Ning Weijin, but Ning Weixuan received a call and informed Dingding that Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran had an emergency surgery and couldn't attend.
Dingding expressed understanding, emphasizing the importance of medical duties. During the dinner, when Dingding asked what gift she should get for Ning Weijin, Ning Weixuan teased that her brother likes Dingding, causing everyone to playfully cheer as Dingding blushed. The next morning, Dingding received a flash delivery from Ning Weijin: a succulent, accompanied by a text congratulating her on her first big order. He explained he could only find a succulent at that early hour, as flower shops were closed.
Dingding loved the gift, feeling closer to her dream, and credited Ning Weijin's help. Shortly after, Ning Weixuan feigned a headache and asked Yunsheng to take Ning Weijin's forgotten keys to the hospital. Yunsheng agreed to go later, but Dingding volunteered, explaining she wanted to invite Ning Weijin to dinner that night. Thrilled, Ning Weixuan handed over the keys, playfully remarking that they might soon "belong to" Dingding. Flustered, Dingding hurried back to her workspace, clutching the succulent.
Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan showed up at Gao Ren's apartment, persistently ringing his doorbell. Gao Ren, opening the door shirtless and annoyed, expressed exasperation at her early morning visit. Ning Weixuan insisted they go to a movie and shop, but he told her he had a date and pushed her out. Undeterred, Ning Weixuan secretly followed him. Gao Ren met a female client at a mall to discuss a surgery.
As they enjoyed milk tea, Gao Ren noticed Ning Weixuan sitting nearby. He quickly explained to his client that Ning Weixuan was his friend's eccentric younger sister who often joked about being his girlfriend. Ning Weixuan then walked over, hugged Gao Ren, called him "Dad," and claimed he was 48, using plastic surgery to look 30. Gao Ren, mortified, quickly pulled her away.
He confronted Ning Weixuan, warning her to stop disrupting his work and reiterating that their relationship was strictly fraternal. Ning Weixuan, however, declared that while she accepted a sibling relationship, he was not allowed to have other women in his life until he developed feelings for her, threatening to sabotage any future dates. Gao Ren was left speechless by her unreasonable demands. Back at the hospital, Dingding arrived to drop off Ning Weijin's keys.
A nurse initially tried to turn her away, but Shu Yiran intervened. Recognizing Dingding, Shu Yiran confirmed Ning Weijin was in the director's office and invited Dingding to wait there. In Ning Weijin's office, Shu Yiran acted like the hostess, offering Dingding instant coffee and claiming Ning Weijin kept the instant kind specifically for her visits, as he only drank freshly ground coffee.
She then faked a phone call, pretending to speak with Uncle Ning about Ning Weijin returning his call, and told Dingding that their families were very close. Shu Yiran went on to suggest that Dingding was a good match for Ning Weijin because he desired an "obedient" and "easy to deal with" girlfriend who "didn't require much attention," unlike herself, who often argued with him.
She implied that Ning Weijin, busy with his medical career, had little time for a "needy" partner. Feeling increasingly uncomfortable, Dingding left the keys and said she had other commitments. As she left, she encountered Ning Weijin and asked if he was free for dinner that evening. Ning Weijin explained he had to cover a colleague's shift but suggested they meet tomorrow night. Already upset, Dingding curtly replied, "Never mind," and left, leaving Ning Weijin puzzled by her sudden anger.
Dingding later confided in Xiao Feng, expressing her frustration that Ning Weijin might see her as a "brainless" and "easy-to-handle" girl, influenced by Shu Yiran's words. Xiao Feng, however, challenged her perspective. He reminded Dingding that Shu Yiran, as Ning Weijin's childhood friend, surely knew he was pursuing Dingding, and a true friend wouldn't deliberately cause misunderstandings. Xiao Feng concluded that Shu Yiran's actions stemmed from jealousy because she, too, harbored feelings for Ning Weijin.
He pointed out that Dingding, usually not easily swayed, was so emotionally affected, which could only mean she also had feelings for Ning Weijin. That night, Ning Weijin was on night duty. Shu Yiran stayed at the hospital, citing an unstable patient as her reason for observing. She offered to take over so Ning Weijin could go home, but he told her to get some rest and he would call her if needed.
She fell asleep on the examination bed in his office. The next morning, she awoke to find Ning Weijin had already left after his shift without waking her. After his night shift, without having slept, Ning Weijin went directly to Dingding's place with breakfast to apologize for missing dinner. He explained that as a doctor, his patients would always be his top priority and hoped for her understanding.
Dingding, having spoken with Xiao Feng, was no longer angry and admitted her own error in judgment. She offered him a steamed bun, which he readily accepted. Noticing his extreme exhaustion, Dingding expressed concern about him driving while sleepy. She asked Yunsheng to drive Ning Weijin home and later texted Ning Weixuan to check on his well-being.
Ning Weixuan then sent Dingding a photo of Ning Weijin asleep in the car, remarking on how tired he looked and teasing Dingding about her sudden display of concern for her brother. Dingding tried to dismiss it as "just a friend's concern," but Ning Weixuan clearly sensed Dingding's deeper feelings for Ning Weijin.
Episode 14 Recap
Zheng Dingding, wanting to learn more about Ning Weijin, searched for his information online but found little. She then asked Ning Weixuan for her brother's class schedule, planning to audit his lecture. Arriving at the university, Dingding couldn't find the classroom until she asked two female students, who were also eagerly heading to Professor Ning's lecture, admiring how handsome and knowledgeable he was. Dingding followed the crowd to a packed classroom and found a seat at the very back.
During Ning Weijin's lecture on cardiopulmonary-cerebral resuscitation, Dingding secretly sketched his portrait. She eventually fell asleep, only to be gently woken by Ning Weijin who then continued his lecture. Other students expressed admiration, remarking that only Dingding would dare to sleep in Professor Ning's class, given how handsome and professional he was. After class, once other students left, Ning Weijin noticed Dingding's sketchbook. He asked for it, and Dingding, like a child caught red-handed, handed it over.
Ning Weijin, finding the portrait of himself quite handsome, decided to keep it as payment for her auditing the class. Ning Weijin then took Dingding to the school cafeteria. When other students spotted them, they questioned if Dingding was his girlfriend. Ning Weijin simply replied, "Why not?" This ambiguous answer made Dingding feel awkward, but Ning Weijin was secretly pleased, sensing that she was beginning to accept him. Dingding later told him his answer would lead to misunderstandings.
Ning Weijin clarified that he was indeed pursuing her, pointing out that she hadn't refuted him when he previously mentioned dating or when he now stated he was pursuing her, implying her growing acceptance. Dingding admitted that refuting was pointless and she was slowly coming to terms with the situation. As they strolled around campus, Dingding saw a couple sharing an ice cream and expressed a hint of envy.
Ning Weijin promptly bought her one but mentioned he never ate ice cream himself, which disappointed Dingding. She then recalled a pleasant memory of sharing ice cream with Chen Xun, quickly clarifying that it was just a good memory, not a longing for Chen Xun. Ning Weijin, eager to create shared happy memories with her, immediately changed his mind and decided to share the ice cream with Dingding, telling her he wanted to have good times with her too.
Dingding confessed that she wanted to understand him more, which was why she came to his class. Ning Weijin then made a promise to Dingding: he would always answer her questions honestly, never lying about what he could disclose. Dingding directly asked if he was pursuing her because she was "nice and obedient and wouldn't bother him." Ning Weijin firmly denied it, stating that if he only wanted such a partner, he wouldn't have waited until now.
Dingding believed him, feeling a sense of relief. Before he left, Dingding showed Ning Weijin the first story she had drawn, seeking his opinion before publishing it online. Ning Weijin, pleased, asked her to promise that he would always be the first reader of her stories. Meanwhile, at Chengpin, Chen Xun faced difficulties with the client Mr. He, who ran a family business in Kunming and struggled to trust outsiders. Mr. He had only ever trusted Dingding.
Despite Chen Xun's repeated calls, Mr. He refused to sign the contract. Chen Xun, determined not to trouble Dingding further, decided to fly to Kunming himself. Wen Zixin arrived at Chengpin, expressing concern for Chen Xun, who hadn't slept well. She offered him sleep aids and then, seeing that the company was hiring an assistant, volunteered for the role. Chen Xun initially declined, feeling she wasn't suited for the job, suggesting she continue as a spokesperson or take a break.
However, Wen Zixin was insistent, arguing that it was better than him struggling alone and that she needed to learn new things to become self-reliant. She announced she would start work that afternoon, leaving Chen Xun no chance to object. Cat secretly met with Dingding, revealing Chen Xun's exhaustion and the critical state of Mr. He's contract.
She implored Dingding to help Chengpin by accompanying Chen Xun to Kunming, emphasizing that the flower products project was Dingding's original idea and was now at its final stage. Dingding, though hesitant about going with Chen Xun, agreed to help, not wanting to see her hard work go to waste. When Cat informed Chen Xun of Dingding's agreement, he was overjoyed and told Cat to book her ticket. Wen Zixin, overhearing, immediately insisted on going too.
She argued that as his new assistant, it was a valuable learning opportunity. Furthermore, as the company's spokesperson, her presence would demonstrate Chengpin's sincerity, and she pointed out that having her along would make things less awkward for him and Dingding. Cat, secretly hoping for a reunion between Dingding and Chen Xun, reluctantly booked an additional ticket for Wen Zixin. Ning Weijin learned about Dingding's planned business trip with Chen Xun and advised her to think carefully.
He reminded her that Chen Xun's past over-reliance was due to her always handling everything for him. He suggested she consider whether she wanted him to become dependent on her again and encouraged her to find a better solution, stressing that the final decision was hers, but that he would be very happy if she chose to stay. The next morning, Ning Weijin drove Dingding to Chengpin to meet Chen Xun and Wen Zixin.
After he left, the three of them set off for the airport. On the way, Dingding, who had been distracted, received a WeChat message from Mr. He approving her revised proposal. Relieved, Dingding told them to stop the car and informed Chen Xun that she would not be going to Kunming.
She explained that she had called Mr. He the previous night to clarify her resignation and sent him the revised contract, but since he hadn't replied, she had resolved to go. Now that he had approved it, her trip was unnecessary. She then handed Chen Xun a USB containing her marked-up proposal, expressing confidence that he and Wen Zixin could close the deal.
Dingding returned to her cafe, where Ning Weixuan excitedly asked if Ning Weijin was the reason she didn't go to Kunming. Dingding readily admitted it, explaining that since she had broken up with Chen Xun, she shouldn't do anything that might give him false hope. Ning Weixuan, noticing Dingding's changed attitude towards her brother, suggested Ning Weijin film another video for the online shop, as their previous one had garnered thousands of likes and boosted sales.
Ning Weixuan, having meticulously summarized her years of reading romance novels into "flirting notes," presented them to Ning Weijin, encouraging him to step up his game with Dingding. Ning Weijin then asked Dingding to meet that weekend to discuss the new video. On Saturday, Dingding arrived in a pretty dress and high heels, a sight that momentarily stunned Ning Weijin. After a brief pause, he quickly invited her to get into the car. Ning Weijin drove Dingding to a park.
Dingding teased him, calling his choice of location "old cadre style" and wondering if he'd bring her for morning exercises if it were earlier. Ning Weijin, following Ning Weixuan's advice, continued his attempts at flirting, saying they should live longer so he could be with her longer. Dingding found his "corny flirt" amusing and told him it didn't suit him. He then tried another tip from the booklet, subtly flexing his muscles while pretending to open a water bottle.
But in doing so, he accidentally spilled water on her. As he apologized and helped her clean up, Dingding noticed a small booklet hidden in his hand, titled "How to Get Zheng Dingding in One Afternoon." She realized his awkward behavior throughout the date was a result of him meticulously following the advice in the book.
Episode 15 Recap
After Ning Weixuan handed him a notebook of love strategies, Ning Weijin took Dingding to the park, determined to impress her. Following the advice to demonstrate "boyfriend power," he flexed his muscles for her, making her laugh awkwardly. When Dingding reached for her water bottle, Ning Weijin quickly offered to open it, only for both of them to pull, causing water to spray all over Dingding's face.
As he apologized and helped her wipe it away, the notebook accidentally fell from his pocket. Dingding picked it up, reading the title "Strategy to get Dingding in one afternoon," and quickly realized Ning Weijin's unusual behavior was all thanks to the tips written inside. Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan continued her relentless pursuit of Gao Ren, arriving at his plastic surgery hospital. The receptionist nurse, following Gao Ren's earlier instructions, told her he was off duty.
Ning Weixuan, unconvinced, insisted she had his schedule. The nurse then suggested she call him, but Gao Ren's phone was conveniently turned off. Ning Weixuan left, frustrated but suspicious. Moments later, Gao Ren emerged from his hiding spot under the reception desk, profusely thanking the nurses for their help and instructing them to always say he was unavailable whenever Ning Weixuan appeared. Back in the park, Dingding and Ning Weijin sat drawing.
When Dingding rested her hand on the grass, Ning Weijin subtly tried to touch it, but she resumed drawing. Her hand then accidentally landed on his, and she quickly pulled it away, apologizing. Ning Weijin, however, assured her it was "all right" and she "don't have to move her hand." Soon after, a sprinkler system activated behind Dingding. Ning Weijin immediately shielded her with his body, his clothes getting soaked.
After Dingding finished packing her art supplies, she noticed his drenched shirt and helped him wring out his jacket, recognizing how his inadvertent flexing perfectly illustrated one of the notebook's strategies. A young girl then approached Ning Weijin, asking to add him on WeChat, which he declined. Dingding intervened, suggesting they take a short video with her cat toy instead. As they filmed, the girl remarked to Dingding, "Your boyfriend is so sweet. . .
You can't hide that affection in the eyes. The way he looks at you makes the air sweet." After the girl left, Dingding pondered her words, much to Ning Weijin's curiosity. Later that day, Shu Yiran visited Gao Ren at his home after a conference nearby. Gao Ren, relieved it wasn't Ning Weixuan, was happy to see her.
She expressed a craving for his signature instant noodles, a nostalgic dish he often made for her and Ning Weijin in college when they were too busy with experiments. While they ate, Shu Yiran showed him a picture of a new pediatrician from their hospital, explaining the girl was interested in him and she was playing matchmaker at her father's request.
Gao Ren grew angry, feeling that Shu Yiran saw him as a "playboy that wouldn't say no to girls" due to her teasing remarks about his "expertise" in dating. Offended, he stormed off to his room, leaving Shu Yiran alone. As Ning Weijin took Dingding home, he told her how happy he was. He explained that he had taken her to his favorite park and restaurant to help her get to know him better.
He preferred to simplify things, especially in relationships, and wanted to be completely open with her. He acknowledged she might find his feelings abrupt but reassured her that once he was committed, he wouldn't hold anything back. He encouraged her to ask him anything directly and, referencing a movie line, said, "There are things we don't need to finish in a rush. We don't have time constraints. So I'll wait for you."
That evening, a dispirited Gao Ren met Ning Weijin at the swimming pool, where he admitted he only went when he was upset. He confessed his feelings for Shu Yiran, explaining his fear of confessing and potentially ruining their friendship. Ning Weijin confirmed he knew Shu Yiran liked him but reiterated he had no romantic intentions towards her, as his heart belonged to Dingding. Gao Ren lamented that if Ning Weijin liked Shu Yiran, he could "just let it go."
Ning Weijin offered comfort, acknowledging the difficulty of unrequited love. After a swim, which Ning Weijin playfully "lost" to cheer Gao Ren up, he agreed to deliver movie tickets and breakfast to Shu Yiran as Gao Ren's apology. Shu Yiran, still annoyed by Gao Ren's earlier outburst, eventually accepted his sincere apology, which included a play, dinner, and late-night snacks—all on him. Back at Ning Weijin's office, he found his assistants preoccupied with their phones.
When he questioned them, they admitted they were trying to buy tickets for a Comic Con, which was about to start selling. Remembering Dingding's love for comics, Ning Weijin asked one of the assistants to get two tickets for him. The assistants were surprised, speculating about Ning Weijin's hidden interest in comics and the identity of the second ticket holder. The next day, Ning Weixuan made another attempt to find Gao Ren at the hospital.
A nurse again insisted he wasn't there, but another nurse inadvertently brought Gao Ren's surgery schedule to the front desk, exposing his presence. The first nurse quickly tried to cover, claiming it was "another Dr. Gao," but Ning Weixuan saw through the facade. She left, only to send a lightweight express package to Gao Ren's office containing a note that simply read, "Look out." Gao Ren, opening the package, looked up to find Ning Weixuan standing at his door.
His anger flared, but she boldly declared, "Gao Ren, just give up hiding. I'll track you down even if you're on Mars." She then proposed they have dinner, but he curtly refused, stating he was "unavailable" and leaving for surgery. Ning Weixuan insisted she would wait until he was free. She then fell asleep on his office sofa, only to be woken by a nurse at closing time, realizing Gao Ren had once again slipped away.
She shouted after his departing figure, "Whatever you do, I won't give up!" Ning Weijin later visited Dingding at the coffee shop and found her intensely focused on a new drawing, referencing photos of him she had found online to design more styles for her "Little Scarf" cat character. He teased her, causing her to fluster and try to hide her work. He then surprised her with the Comic Con tickets he had acquired.
Dingding was thrilled, confessing she had tried but failed to get them. Ning Weijin then complimented her artwork, especially when it depicted him, prompting her to playfully call him "narcissistic." On their Comic Con date, Ning Weijin admitted he recognized few characters, save for "Machine Cat"—a term Dingding affectionately teased him for, preferring "Doraemon." He confessed his wish for a time machine to return to the past and rectify some regrets, which Dingding understood was about his late mother.
She offered him a Doraemon pendant, assuring him, "Although we can't go back, we still have the future ahead of us, right? Everything will be fine." She added that his current endeavors were "good enough to make up for it," and his mother "would understand." Ning Weijin hugged her, thanking her for always knowing how to comfort him, then playfully teased her for saying "we have a future," making her blush and quickly change the subject to other shows.
Soon after, Dingding's comic of "Little Scarf," depicting a high-and-mighty cat wearing a doctor's uniform, went viral online, circulating throughout Ning Weijin's hospital. Nurses immediately recognized the resemblance to Ning Weijin, with his nickname "Little Scarf" ("Xiaoweijin") also being a subtle nod to his name (Wei Jin). They gossiped about his "spring" of love arriving and the true nature of his relationship with Dingding.
Ning Weijin, overhearing their chatter, mildly reprimanded them for using phones during work hours but notably did not deny the comic's implications, further fueling speculation. Observing this, Ning Weixuan wondered if this public acknowledgment was precisely what Ning Weijin had wanted. Seeing the Doraemon pendant in her brother's room, Ning Weixuan realized the significant progress in his relationship with Dingding.
She proposed a weekend getaway for the two of them, offering to handle all the arrangements and even get Dingding to agree, but only if Ning Weijin would help her lure Gao Ren to the event.
Ning Weijin was hesitant to interfere in her pursuit of Gao Ren, but Ning Weixuan insisted the main goal was to advance his relationship with Dingding, arguing his previous proposal was "perfunctory and boring," and that girls "yearn for a sense of occasion in love" that creates a "special place to create your own memory." She challenged him, asserting he couldn't convince Dingding to spend a weekend away and suggesting her help was "indispensable."
Ning Weijin ultimately agreed to the deal. Ning Weixuan then announced a compulsory team-building activity for her coffee shop staff at a resort, insisting everyone, including Dingding, attend. Dingding initially resisted, citing urgent shipping orders, but was eventually swayed by Ning Weixuan's persistent pleading and the staff's encouragement. Ning Weixuan assured Dingding that the other staff would help her finish her orders before the weekend. At the resort, Ning Weijin was already waiting.
Gao Ren soon arrived, believing Ning Weijin had invited him for a private "romantic bro time," complete with fishing rods. Upon seeing Ning Weixuan, he realized it was another one of the siblings' elaborate traps and tried to flee. Ning Weixuan, however, clung to him, refusing to let go.
Ning Weijin, leaving Gao Ren to his fate, took Dingding to a nearby fishing spot, where Dingding commented on Ning Weijin's statuesque patience, wondering if her own posture was wrong as she failed to catch any fish.
Episode 16 Recap
Zheng Dingding and Ning Weijin went fishing by the river. After a long wait with no fish biting, Dingding grew impatient, but Ning Weijin remained relaxed. He confessed he didn't know how to fish and simply wanted to enjoy the rare peaceful time by her side. Dingding, finding his directness charming, offered him sunscreen after he extended his arm for her to apply it.
When a fish finally bit her line, both reached for the rod, with Ning Weijin embracing Dingding from behind. Dingding nervously held the fish basket, and in the excitement, the fish unfortunately got away. Meanwhile, Gao Ren was lounging by the swimming pool, enjoying observing women in swimsuits, when Ning Weixuan approached him.
He tried to avoid her by covering his face with a hat, but she playfully splashed ice water on his stomach and insisted he join her for a swim. She boldly stated she would accompany him in whatever he wanted to do. Gao Ren, seizing the opportunity to tease her, said he just wanted to sleep. Ning Weixuan shyly turned away and called him a "rascal."
Gao Ren then advanced towards her, teasing that if he kept refusing her persistent invitations, people would think he was incapable. Startled, Ning Weixuan stumbled backward and fell into the pool, shouting at him. Gao Ren simply embraced his "jerk" status, and Ning Weixuan vowed she wouldn't let him go. At Wen Zixin's home, a leaky water pipe prompted her to call Chen Xun for help.
Despite his initial confidence, Chen Xun failed to repair it and ended up soaked when the pipe burst again. Wen Zixin offered him his old clothes, claiming she kept them as pajamas. As he changed, Chen Xun reminisced about a time when Dingding, to save money, had successfully fixed a similar leak herself. He realized Dingding wasn't naturally adept but had learned various skills specifically to assist him.
He expressed deep regret over losing such a wonderful woman, acknowledging that she had moved on and found happiness with someone else. Wen Zixin, eager to prove herself, promised to learn quickly to be his assistant. However, Chen Xun revealed he was already interviewing new administrative assistants, believing a professional was needed.
Wen Zixin, unwilling to give up, pleaded for a month to demonstrate her capabilities, reminding him of the chance he once had to start over with Dingding, implying he should extend the same courtesy to her. Chen Xun reluctantly agreed to give her one month. Back at the resort, Ning Weixuan, as part of her plan to set up Dingding and Ning Weijin, feigned a sprained ankle, calling Dingding to ask her and her brother to pick her up.
Gao Ren, though outwardly dismissive of Ning Weixuan's tricks, showed visible concern for her, even pricking his finger with a barbecue skewer in his distraction. Dingding and Ning Weijin followed the address Ning Weixuan sent, which led them to an increasingly remote area, making Dingding nervous. Ning Weijin held her hand, reassuring her. They soon arrived at a beautifully decorated picnic spot filled with flowers and balloons, meticulously arranged by Ning Weixuan.
Ning Weijin led Dingding to a heart-shaped picnic area and confessed that Ning Weixuan's injury was a fabrication. Surprisingly, Dingding wasn't angry; instead, she shared how profoundly her life had changed in just over a month—from her fibroma diagnosis and breakup with Chen Xun to starting her own studio.
She admitted that she would have been overwhelmed if not for the support of Ning Weijin and her friends, and this was the first time someone had put such heartfelt effort into her. As Ning Weijin leaned in to kiss her, a sudden twinge from her surgical wound made Dingding flinch. He offered to examine it, but she became shy, noting that their relationship was different now.
Undeterred, Ning Weijin pushed her down and forcibly kissed her, leaving Dingding blushing but less embarrassed. Their romantic interlude was cut short by a frantic call from Gao Ren, who reported that Ning Weixuan was genuinely missing and her phone was out of service. He had already started searching in the forest. Ning Weijin and Dingding immediately joined the search, splitting up with their colleagues, Yunsheng and Lei. Gao Ren eventually found Ning Weixuan.
She had indeed sprained her ankle while searching for a five-petal lilac, believing that finding one would lead her to her true love. She had also broken her phone. Gao Ren carried her back to the hotel on his back. Despite her injury, Ning Weixuan was secretly pleased, pointing out that his voice had changed with worry when he found her, a sign of genuine concern. Gao Ren, however, maintained he only cared for her as Ning Weijin's sister.
Later, as the team-building activity concluded, Ning Weixuan refused to get off Gao Ren's back, feigning leg cramps. To ensure Ning Weijin and Dingding had alone time, she arranged for their colleagues, Yunsheng and Lei, to leave in one car and Ning Weijin to drive Dingding home. This left Gao Ren no choice but to take Ning Weixuan back.
Witnessing Gao Ren's despairing expression, Dingding remarked on how Ning Weixuan had managed to conquer the usually glib Gao Ren, finding them a surprisingly good match. Later, Wen Zixin asked Dingding to meet. Ning Weijin insisted on accompanying Dingding, reminding her of the last time she met Wen Zixin alone, which resulted in her wound reopening. As her "exclusive doctor," he felt responsible for her well-being.
During their meeting, Wen Zixin sought Dingding's advice on how to be a good assistant to Chen Xun. Ning Weijin sat at a distance, unconcerned with their conversation but keeping a watchful eye on Wen Zixin to ensure she didn't upset Dingding. Afterward, Wen Zixin reported back to Chen Xun that Dingding was not only more confident but also in a confirmed relationship with Ning Weijin, who had even accompanied her to their meeting.
Chen Xun was visibly agitated by this news. His assistant, Cat, urged him to pursue Dingding, but Chen Xun angrily dismissed the idea, stating he shouldn't interfere with Dingding's new life. Cat, frustrated, blamed Ning Weijin for Chen Xun's unhappiness. Despite a highly qualified candidate interviewing for the administrative assistant position, Chen Xun, still preoccupied with the news, quickly dismissed her, using his promise to give Wen Zixin a month as an excuse not to hire anyone new.
Upon seeing Dingding's social media post about staying overnight during the team building, Xiao Feng visited her to inquire about her relationship with Ning Weijin. Dingding downplayed their intimacy, describing their kiss as merely a "touch." She admitted she hadn't agreed to be his girlfriend, fearing that committing might shatter the current "beautiful illusion" she held in her heart, making her hesitant to take the next step.
Xiao Feng, referencing "Schrodinger's cat," advised her to take a leap of faith to discover if the outcome would be good or bad, emphasizing that prolonged indecision would only lead to regret. That evening, as Ning Weijin arrived home, the "big-chested beauty" who had previously approached him at the hospital confronted him again. Claiming severe chest pain, she demanded a private examination.
Ning Weijin struggled to get her to release his arm and threatened to call the police, which prompted her to quickly leave. Unbeknownst to them, someone had secretly photographed the woman embracing Ning Weijin. The next day, Ning Weijin received a mysterious letter. He inadvertently included it with patient treatment records he asked his assistant, Ding Yang, to deliver to the director.
Soon after, the director summoned Ning Weijin, showing him the photo of the woman embracing him, accompanied by a threatening note: "If you want to keep these photos a secret, stay away from Zheng Dingding." Ning Weijin explained the woman was a patient who had caused a disturbance at the hospital and suspected she was being used by someone else.
The director warned him about the severe implications for his career, particularly his ongoing application for the "Breast Cancer 1/2 project," which could be jeopardized. The director promised to temporarily suppress the issue but stressed that Ning Weijin must quickly identify the mastermind behind the scheme, as continued escalation could damage the hospital's reputation and leave even the director powerless to help him.
Episode 17 Recap
Ning Weijin decided not to tell Zheng Dingding about the recent events and sought Gao Ren’s help. Gao Ren, who was giving Ning Weixuan a ride home, complained about carrying her, even though she insisted he lacked exercise. Ning Weixuan, wanting to prolong her time with Gao Ren, sent Ning Weijin a message asking him to leave the house, but Ning Weijin was already home, waiting for Gao Ren.
Ning Weijin asked Gao Ren to come inside, as he had something important to discuss. Ning Weijin showed Gao Ren the photos and the threatening letter. Gao Ren immediately recognized it as a setup, and Ning Weijin confirmed that the contact information left by the woman, Zhong Miaoli, was fake, indicating a premeditated act. Gao Ren read the letter, which explicitly stated, "If you don't want these photos get out, keep away from Zheng Dingding."
He deduced that the motive was to separate Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding. Gao Ren initially suspected Chen Xun, considering he had liked Zheng Dingding for years. However, Ning Weijin was reluctant to involve Zheng Dingding, fearing she might misinterpret it as jealousy if Chen Xun turned out to be innocent. Ning Weijin believed Chen Xun wouldn't stoop to such tactics, especially given Zheng Dingding's long-standing affection for him.
Gao Ren, noticing Zhong Miaoli's face had obvious signs of amateur plastic surgery, offered to use his connections in the cosmetic industry to find her. He jokingly offered to make Ning Weijin ugly to deter future troubles, but Ning Weijin, a self-proclaimed neat freak, just told him to get off his bed. Gao Ren later confronted Shu Yiran, who became furious that he would suspect her of such a "mean" act.
She emphasized that even if she didn't want Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding together, she would never hurt Ning Weijin in such a way. Gao Ren quickly apologized. Shu Yiran then went to the security office to review surveillance footage, identifying the car Zhong Miaoli drove to the hospital.
She provided the car’s photo to Ning Weijin, telling him this was his lead, and sternly asked him to communicate directly with her in the future, as she felt like less than a friend when he sent Gao Ren to her. She concluded by saying her help ended there, and Ning Weijin needed to find the woman himself. At the hospital, Ning Weijin noticed his colleagues giving him strange looks.
His assistants informed him that rumors of him harassing female patients were rampant, leading the director to reassign all his morning appointments to Dr. Shu. Despite his assistants expressing their trust in him, Ning Weijin calmly stated, "The clear will be clear," and refused to take leave, not wanting to appear guilty. Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan hovered around Zheng Dingding's studio, torn about whether to share the news.
Zheng Dingding mentioned that Ning Weijin had been unusually busy and hard to reach. Ning Weixuan, after some hesitation, revealed that Ning Weijin had been framed by someone who sent compromising photos of him being harassed by a female patient to the hospital, causing everyone to believe he was seducing patients. Alarmed, Zheng Dingding rushed to the hospital.
There, she overheard nurses gossiping about Ning Weijin, spreading sensationalized rumors that he was caught by a patient's boyfriend after leaving her home. Shu Yiran quickly intervened, scolding the nurses and threatening to report them to the head nurse if they continued to spread rumors. Shu Yiran then pulled Zheng Dingding aside, revealing that the anonymous letter specifically mentioned Zheng Dingding's name, making it clear she was the target.
Shu Yiran stressed that while past harassment incidents were dismissed, this one was gravely damaging Ning Weijin’s reputation and even the hospital’s, warning that if the culprit wasn't found, Ning Weijin could be fired. She sternly told Zheng Dingding to control her personal affairs to avoid further implicating Ning Weijin. Shortly after, a patient's husband burst into Ning Weijin’s examination room, demanding his wife leave, accusing Ning Weijin of being a pervert based on the rumors.
Zheng Dingding, who overheard the confrontation, stepped forward, demanding an apology from the husband. She passionately defended Ning Weijin as the most dedicated and responsible doctor she knew, proclaiming, "I am his patient and his girlfriend!" This declaration deeply moved Ning Weijin, making all his grievances vanish. Zheng Dingding insisted on being involved, arguing that since her name was on the letter, it was their shared problem.
She firmly believed in Ning Weijin's integrity and that someone was deliberately trying to sabotage their relationship. Ning Weijin reassured her, taking full responsibility as he was the one who pursued her, urging her not to feel burdened. Zheng Dingding then recognized Zhong Miaoli in the photos, recalling she had witnessed the hug from the photos at the hospital. Zheng Dingding's first suspect was Chen Xun. She arranged to meet him, showing him Zhong Miaoli's photo and explaining the situation.
Chen Xun denied any knowledge. When Zheng Dingding voiced her suspicion that he might be behind it to separate them, Chen Xun became enraged. He bitterly contrasted her trust in Ning Weijin, a man she barely knew, with her doubt in him after a six-year relationship. Wen Zixin, who arrived during the argument, fiercely defended Chen Xun, scolding Zheng Dingding for her accusation and asking her to stop bothering him now that she had a new life.
Ning Weijin’s suspension was presented as a leave of absence. While Zheng Dingding worried about the rapidly spreading negative online rumors, Ning Weijin remained unfazed, seeing it as an opportunity to spend more time with her. Zheng Dingding decided to take matters into her own hands, posting Zhong Miaoli’s photo on Weibo and appealing to her followers for help, noting, "Little scarf needs help, please help me find this person." Many netizens responded with possible sightings.
Zheng Dingding and Ning Weijin diligently followed each lead. Finally, at the last residential community, they spotted Zhong Miaoli. She immediately ran, but Zheng Dingding, exhibiting impressive speed as a former university track team member, tackled her onto the grass, accusing her of having a guilty conscience. With Zhong Miaoli found, Ning Weijin was cleared of the false accusations.
The next morning, he enthusiastically brought Zheng Dingding to the hospital early, walking her around to ensure everyone knew she was his girlfriend and explicitly declaring his "sovereignty" over her. Later, Zheng Dingding playfully asked if examining her felt the same as examining other patients. Ning Weijin explained that professionally, doctors view all bodies as organs, possibly diseased. But then, looking at her, he affectionately added, "To me, you are unique."
Still convinced of Chen Xun's involvement, Zheng Dingding later confronted him again at his office. Pushed by her unwavering accusations, a hurt and furious Chen Xun impulsively gave her the confession she seemed to want. He falsely claimed he had orchestrated the entire scheme because he couldn't stand Ning Weijin’s "sanctimonious" demeanor, couldn’t bear losing her, and wanted to see Ning Weijin ruined. Later, a heartbroken Chen Xun was found drinking alone at a bar by Wen Zixin.
He sprawled on the ground, refusing to get up. Wen Zixin lay beside him, comforting him and promising to always be there for him, suggesting they start fresh after that night. In his office, Ning Weijin became visibly angry when two interns made a simple but critical mistake involving a patient's medication history. He reprimanded them for trying to shift blame to the patient and then personally went to explain the situation to the patient.
While still stern, his mood visibly softened when he received a photo of Zheng Dingding from Ning Weixuan, causing him to smile, much to the surprise of his colleagues. Ning Weixuan, ever the matchmaker, then playfully suggested to Zheng Dingding that Ning Weijin should "marry you" for helping him, hinting that Zheng Dingding was ready to accept him if he confessed his feelings again.
Episode 18 Recap
Ning Weijin was asked by his colleagues, who were away on a business trip, to look after their six-year-old daughter, Xiexie, for two days. He had no choice but to bring Xiexie along on his date with Dingding. From the moment they met, Xiexie declared herself Ning Weijin's girlfriend, insisting she would marry her "Boyfriend uncle" when she grew up, much to Dingding's amusement and slight exasperation.
Ning Weijin explained that Xiexie's parents were hospital colleagues who had entrusted her to him. Xiexie even tried to sit in the front passenger seat, arguing that a "girlfriend" should be allowed. Dingding, though initially amused by Xiexie's antics, observed Ning Weijin's attentive care for the child. Xiexie, meanwhile, told Dingding that if she wanted to win Ning Weijin, she needed to be smarter.
Dingding was surprised by Ning Weijin's gentle demeanor, remarking on how skilled he was at caring for children. He explained that he had primarily looked after Ning Weixuan when she was little. Dingding, noting his usually cool exterior, admitted she wouldn't have expected him to like children, before quickly backtracking and insisting she loved them. Ning Weijin then playfully stated that he not only knew how to take care of children but also girlfriends, subtly pressing Dingding about their relationship.
After dinner, Xiexie claimed she was sleepy and wanted to go home. Dingding, wanting Ning Weijin to take Xiexie back first, offered to take a taxi herself. As Ning Weijin was about to drive away, Xiexie mischievously leaned over and whispered to Dingding that she wasn't actually sleepy. Dingding felt outsmarted by the child. Later, Ning Weijin discovered that Xiexie was allergic to cat hair and couldn't stay at his house.
He considered taking her to a hotel, but Ning Weixuan suggested they go to Dingding's place instead, reasoning that Dingding lived alone and having one extra child wouldn't be a problem. Ning Weijin took Xiexie to Dingding's home. Xiexie, still determined to keep Ning Weijin to herself, insisted that wherever he slept, she would sleep too.
Ning Weijin tried to persuade her to sleep with Dingding, but Xiexie refused to stay without him, leaving Ning Weijin no choice but to spend the night on Dingding's sofa. When Dingding went to get blankets for the sofa, Xiexie insisted on accompanying her, openly stating that she wouldn't let Dingding and her "Boyfriend uncle" be alone. After Dingding made up the sofa, Xiexie even lay down to test its comfort before allowing Ning Weijin to use it.
After his shower, Ning Weijin emerged from the bathroom without a shirt, causing Xiexie to scream in embarrassment and quickly run upstairs to Dingding's room. Dingding then offered him a sample of her newly designed cat-themed T-shirt, which was set to launch soon. Ning Weijin found it a perfect fit and asked if he could keep it, to which Dingding happily agreed.
He apologized for the interrupted date, but Dingding reassured him she had a good time and teased him about being popular with everyone, regardless of age. Ning Weijin responded that he only cared about being liked by one person, subtly conveying his feelings for her. As Dingding tucked Xiexie into bed, the girl asked for a love story, specifically Dingding's own. When Dingding demurred, Xiexie bluntly stated that Dingding was boring and wondered why Ning Weijin liked her.
Xiexie then revealed her deep affection for Ning Weijin wasn't because of his looks, but because he was uniquely attentive and considerate. Unlike other adults who expected her to obey, Ning Weijin genuinely listened to her thoughts and valued her opinions. Xiexie reiterated her intention to marry him, prompting Dingding to admit she admired Xiexie's bravery in love, and vowed to "cheer up" and not lose to her.
The next morning, Shu Yiran called Ning Weijin, planning to bring some egg tarts she had made to Xiexie at his house. However, she was upset to learn from Ning Weijin that he and Xiexie had spent the night at Dingding's. Masking her discomfort, Shu Yiran suggested they meet for lunch so she could still deliver the egg tarts to Xiexie.
While Gao Ren was in a hospital meeting, he received urgent WeChat messages from Ning Weijin, asking him to come home immediately. Despite pressing for details, Ning Weijin only replied with "urgent, urgent." Gao Ren, worried, secretly slipped out of the meeting and rushed to Ning Weijin's house, only to find Ning Weixuan there alone. Gao Ren messaged Ning Weijin again, but realized Ning Weixuan was logged into Ning Weijin's account on the computer, responding to him.
Furious at her childish prank, Gao Ren was torn between scolding her and fearing he might hurt her feelings. Ultimately, to placate her, he reluctantly agreed to be her boyfriend, causing Ning Weixuan to jump with joy. Gao Ren immediately began to test Ning Weixuan, declaring himself a "family man" who expected his girlfriend to be domestic and cook his first meal. While he relaxed on the sofa playing games, Ning Weixuan eagerly went into the kitchen.
Despite accidentally cutting her finger, she smiled, put on a bandage, and continued cooking. She prepared a delicious four-dish, one-soup meal, which impressed Gao Ren. He then upped the challenge, stating that this would be the standard for every meal going forward, with no repeat dishes daily. Though daunted, Ning Weixuan agreed. Shu Yiran informed Ning Weijin that it was his father's birthday on Sunday, hoping he would return home to celebrate.
Ning Weijin, however, immediately refused, stating his unwillingness to see his father and Yin Fei. While Ning Weijin went to pay the bill, Shu Yiran received a call from Yin Fei, who was inquiring about her progress with Ning Weijin. Shu Yiran confidently told Yin Fei that she planned to apply for a joint breast cancer research project with Ning Weijin, and if successful, they would be sent to the U. S. for three years.
She vowed that during this time, she would definitely win Ning Weijin back. Xiexie, overhearing this conversation, suddenly dropped her egg tart and loudly declared it "smelly," much to Shu Yiran's bewilderment. Later, Xiexie, now quiet, asked Ning Weijin if he liked Dingding. He confirmed that he did, but also shared that Dingding had not yet agreed to be his girlfriend.
Xiexie, disappointed by Dingding's inaction, remarked that it was no wonder someone else might try to steal Ning Weijin away. She then clarified her preference by asking if Ning Weijin liked Shu Yiran, and was relieved when he said no. That evening, Ning Weixuan prepared a romantic candlelight dinner and dressed alluringly for Gao Ren, hoping for a romantic evening.
Gao Ren tried to be receptive and leaned in for a kiss, but as he got close, he realized he couldn't. He only saw Ning Weixuan as a younger sister and felt it was wrong for them to be together. Unable to continue the charade, Gao Ren bluntly told Ning Weixuan that her dream of being with him was a "daydream." He then picked her up, carried her back to her room, and left her house.
Gao Ren's harsh words deeply wounded Ning Weixuan. She wept inconsolably in her bed, feeling like a joke and believing that no matter what she did, Gao Ren would never like her. Ning Weijin came to comfort his sister, telling her she had simply fallen for the wrong person. Ning Weixuan questioned him about what made a "right" person, asking if it was someone who liked her or someone she liked.
Observing her heartbreak, Ning Weijin reflected on how truly difficult it was to find someone you love who also loves you back. Prompted by Xiexie's urgent call, Dingding arranged to meet Ning Weijin. She directly asked him if he was working on a project and planning to go abroad, then impulsively declared that she didn't want him to leave because she didn't want a long-distance relationship right after they got together. Realizing her impromptu confession, Dingding turned away shyly.
Ning Weijin embraced her and asked if she would be his girlfriend, to which she happily agreed. She then pressed him on whether he would still go abroad. Ning Weijin revealed that his project was still in the preparatory stages and hadn't even been approved, so his going abroad was uncertain. Dingding realized she had been tricked by Xiexie, but acknowledged it was a sweet deception that led to their official coupling.
Shu Yiran once again attempted to persuade Ning Weijin to attend his father's birthday, emphasizing his father's declining health and the importance of familial reconciliation. Ning Weijin remained resolute in his refusal, stating he would not go. Dingding, overhearing their conversation, stepped in and gently argued that a father and son shouldn't harbor resentment forever and that he should attend his father's birthday.
Ning Weijin, influenced by Dingding's words, offered a compromise: he would go if Dingding accompanied him, treating it as an opportunity for her to meet his parents. Dingding, blushing but eager to support him, agreed. Seeing their interaction and Dingding's successful persuasion, Shu Yiran, visibly frustrated, turned and left. Ning Weijin then told Dingding he wanted the whole world to know she was his girlfriend, even those he didn't wish to see.
Episode 19 Recap
Ning Weijin, still harboring deep resentment towards his father, Ning Suqing, due to his past relationship with Yin Fei after his mother’s death, expressed his reluctance to attend his father’s birthday. He felt conflicted, especially after Zheng Dingding had already agreed to accompany him. Ning Weijin confessed to Zheng Dingding that he didn't want to face his father alone, admitting, "I don't get along well with my father. I don't know what to say when we meet."
Zheng Dingding gently pressed him, reminding him that Ning Suqing had been feeling unwell and that it was only natural to visit. She advised him against living with this emotional burden, asking, "You don't want to live with a knot in your heart. Do you want to choose to escape all the time?" Ning Weijin worried about potential awkwardness, confessing, "I just feel nervous. I feel like something is going to happen."
Zheng Dingding, however, stood firm, assuring him, "It's fine. I am with you this time. Don't be afraid." She reiterated her commitment, and Ning Weijin asked if she would always be by his side. Later, Shu Yiran confronted Ning Weijin, observing his changed behavior. She noted, "Zheng Dingding has a great influence on you. She can persuade you to go home easily," implying that she herself had failed.
Ning Weijin clarified that while he was only visiting his father because Shu Yiran told him he was sick, he was also doing his duty. He explained that Shu Yiran already understood his family situation and temper, making extensive communication unnecessary, but with Zheng Dingding, it was different. Since they were officially a couple, he felt it was an opportunity for her to understand everything about his background directly.
Shu Yiran questioned his decision, suggesting it was disrespectful to his father to bring a girlfriend without prior notice after such a long absence. Ning Weijin retorted by asking if his father had shown him or Ning Weixuan respect when he brought Yin Fei home. Accepting his decision, Shu Yiran offered to accompany him, stating, "If Uncle Ning is angry, I can help you." Ning Weijin thanked her.
While Zheng Dingding was online choosing a gift for Ning Suqing, Ning Weixuan appeared, initially thinking the gift was for Ning Weijin. Upon learning it was for her father, Ning Weixuan's demeanor changed instantly. She then confronted Ning Weijin directly, demanding to know why he was going to see "that guy." Ning Weijin explained he was merely visiting because Shu Yiran mentioned his father was ill.
Ning Weixuan accused him of abandoning his principles and forgetting their mother, exclaiming, "Have you forgotten about mom? There's no such a father in the world will abandon his own child. He only cares about that woman. How can you celebrate birthday for him?" Ning Weijin maintained that Ning Suqing was their father, an unchangeable fact, and that he needed to face the situation instead of escaping.
Ning Weixuan scoffed, asking if he intended to call Ning Suqing "father" and Yin Fei "mother," and suggesting he wanted "the blessing of the elders" to become a "loving family." She tearfully pleaded with him, "Bro, you can't treat me like this. You can't treat mum like this." She delivered an ultimatum: "If you are going, I'll never talk to you again." Ning Weixuan then stormed off, leaving Ning Weijin calling after her in dismay.
Overwhelmed by emotion, Ning Weixuan found herself at Gao Ren's hospital, questioning her presence there. Meanwhile, Ning Weijin had already confided in Gao Ren about his dilemma regarding his sister. He explained his intention to take Zheng Dingding to his father's birthday to help her understand his family, but his main worry was Ning Weixuan's reaction, asking Gao Ren to talk to her. Gao Ren, however, was hesitant, acknowledging he hadn't contacted her since their last strained encounter.
Soon after, a nurse called Gao Ren, informing him that "the girl who keeps coming to our hospital for you" was sitting outside in the heavy rain and showed no signs of leaving. Gao Ren rushed out, finding a distraught Ning Weixuan. He offered her a tissue, asking, "Why are you there? You should call me." Ning Weixuan retorted, "Why should I call you? Let you bully me again?" before breaking down into tears.
Gao Ren attempted to take Ning Weixuan home, but she vehemently refused, declaring, "He has chosen our father, Ning Suqing, over me. That's not my home." She even threatened to jump out of the car if he didn't stop, finally insisting he take her "anywhere," or to a hotel. Faced with her stubbornness, Gao Ren brought her back to his own apartment.
Meanwhile, Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding, unable to reach Ning Weixuan, were increasingly concerned until Ning Weijin received a text from Gao Ren stating, "Xuan is with me. Don't worry." Ning Weijin then reassured Zheng Dingding, who had been trying to call Ning Weixuan, that his sister was safe with Gao Ren. At Gao Ren's apartment, he offered Ning Weixuan some ginger soup and a place to sleep, apologizing for his lack of feminine clothes.
Noticing her uncharacteristic silence, Gao Ren apologized for his previous harshness, even offering to let her hit him to vent her anger, as he found her quiet demeanor unsettling. Ning Weixuan asked why he had treated her that way, and Gao Ren admitted, "I just did it on purpose. I just wanted to scare you." He attempted to cheer her up by making funny faces. Misunderstanding his affection, Ning Weixuan then asked, "You don't really hate me, do you?"
to which Gao Ren replied, "I don't hate you. I like you. You are my little sister." Ning Weixuan, misinterpreting his words, joyfully exclaimed, "I knew it!" Her spirits instantly lifted, and she reverted to her playful, demanding self, even suggesting they "sleep together." Alarmed, Gao Ren warned her to follow his rules in his house, which meant going to bed. He threatened to kick her out if she didn't calm down.
Ning Weixuan challenged him to open the door, then quickly backed down, conceding "I am wrong, okay?" She then declared her refusal to return to her brother's house and dared Gao Ren to make her sleep on the streets. Exasperated, Gao Ren eventually gave up trying to reason with her and retreated to his room to sleep, leaving her to her antics. The next morning, Gao Ren tried to persuade Ning Weixuan, "Just go home.
Your brother is worried about you." Ning Weixuan dismissed his concern, calling Ning Weijin "a cold-blooded animal" and stubbornly refusing to reconcile with her father, declaring, "I will never forgive him." Gao Ren urged her to communicate with her father instead of maintaining such animosity. Frustrated, Ning Weixuan threatened to leave, saying, "Don't you think I am an eyesore? I just leave. You can see me no more."
Gao Ren quickly apologized and gently pulled her back, asking her to sit down and eat breakfast. On Ning Suqing's birthday, Shu Yiran arrived early to help with preparations. Ning Suqing and Yin Fei warmly welcomed her, treating her like family. Ning Suqing directly inquired about her relationship with Ning Weijin, asking when they would get married. Yin Fei intervened, suggesting they shouldn't rush the young couple, though Ning Suqing still pressed for a wedding soon.
When Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding arrived, Shu Yiran covertly informed Yin Fei that Ning Weijin had brought his girlfriend, Zheng Dingding. Yin Fei was taken aback, complaining that Shu Yiran hadn't warned her, worrying about Ning Suqing's reaction to Ning Weijin bringing a girlfriend home unannounced. Shu Yiran, however, encouraged her to remain calm, reminding Yin Fei that "Here is your home court. We're all on your side."
She stressed the importance of not embarrassing Ning Weijin on his father's birthday, and that her support was what truly mattered. Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding arrived at the house. Shu Yiran greeted them, telling Zheng Dingding to make herself at home. Ning Weijin immediately conducted a medical check-up on his father, Ning Suqing, inquiring about his symptoms and reminding him to take his medicine. Ning Suqing dismissed his concerns, saying, "You always like to exaggerate the patient's condition.
To show your worth." Zheng Dingding then presented her gift: "Hello, Uncle Ning. Here's a present for you. This is health care product. . . Specifically for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. I heard that your heart has some problems." Ning Suqing completely ignored the gift, instead asking Ning Weijin about the results of his check-up. Yin Fei awkwardly thanked Zheng Dingding for the "health care product."
Zheng Dingding asked if something was wrong, and Shu Yiran quickly interjected, explaining, "Uncle Ning doesn't like people to say he is in bad health. He hates it. Didn't Weijin tell you about that when you chose it?" Zheng Dingding was visibly embarrassed. Ning Weijin stepped in, firmly stating, "No matter you like it or not, it's Dingding's kindness," compelling his father to accept the gift. Ning Suqing reluctantly took it.
Ning Weijin then directly challenged Shu Yiran, a fellow doctor, asking, "If you won't get sick for avoiding talking about it. Then what's the doctors for? Yiran, you are a doctor as well. You should know it." Yin Fei attempted to usher Ning Weijin out, remarking that "Doctor Ning is busy. He has no time to have a lunch." However, Shu Yiran and Zheng Dingding both encouraged him to stay to make Ning Suqing happy.
Ning Weijin, persuaded by Zheng Dingding, agreed to remain. At the dinner table, Yin Fei toasted Ning Suqing, welcoming Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding, calling Zheng Dingding "the best birthday present" for his father. Zheng Dingding graciously drank on Ning Weijin's behalf, wishing Ning Suqing a happy birthday. Yin Fei then inquired about how Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding met. Zheng Dingding explained, "I was Doctor Ning's patient."
Ning Weijin clarified that Zheng Dingding had a mammary fibroma, a minor condition likely caused by stress. Yin Fei, with a hint of sarcasm, commented, "Our Weijin is excellent. But he's never been in love. Miss Zheng, you are quite amazing," implying Zheng Dingding was manipulative. Ning Weijin quickly corrected her, stating, "I fell in love with her first. She wasn't interested in me at first. We just being together recently."
As Yin Fei prepared to cut a homemade cake for Ning Suqing, Ning Weixuan suddenly returned, proclaiming, "Why are you starting to have lunch without me? What's wrong? Am I not welcome?" Yin Fei tried to welcome her, but Ning Weixuan ignored her, pushing the cake aside and asserting, "My dad doesn't like sweets. It's not healthy."
Instead, she presented a bowl of longevity noodles she had made, explaining, "My mum would cook you longevity noodles by herself every year on your birthday in the past. And now mom was gone. Then I'll cook it for you." Ning Suqing took a few bites of the noodles, tears welling in his eyes. Ning Weixuan asked if it tasted like their mother's. Seeing Ning Suqing's emotional reaction, Yin Fei’s expression changed, and she retreated to the kitchen.
Ning Suqing invited Ning Weixuan to stay, but she refused, stating, "I just come here to give you the gift. And someone is not happy about that. If I stay here and have a lunch, she will hate me." She then quickly left, ignoring Ning Weijin's calls and proclaiming, "Don't talk to me. I don't know you." After leaving the tense gathering, Ning Weijin apologized to Zheng Dingding for the unpleasant experience. Unperturbed, Zheng Dingding replied, "It's fine.
The lunch was quite delicious." She then took him to a badminton court, a place she frequented to relieve stress, and encouraged him to play. After a brief game, Ning Weijin thanked Zheng Dingding for her presence, telling her, "Thank you for accepting me." Zheng Dingding playfully teased him about becoming less "cool," to which he asked if she preferred him that way. She affirmed, "I like you to be cool to everyone but me."
Ning Weijin then inquired if the visit to his family had caused her any trouble. Zheng Dingding, understanding, reassured him, "Every family has a skeleton in the cupboard. I understand it." Ning Weijin then revealed the painful truth about his family, explaining that his mother had died of breast cancer, but during her illness, his father had an affair.
This betrayal led to both him and Ning Weixuan harboring deep resentment towards their father, a sentiment they had held onto until now. Zheng Dingding felt apologetic for having urged him to go home without knowing the full extent of his struggle. Ning Weijin, however, expressed gratitude, saying, "But now I am glad I went there. Firstly, it let me know that facing him again is not as difficult as I thought.
Secondly, it let me know that because I have you by my side, everything became so simple." He then made a heartfelt declaration, "I used to swear that I will only love one person in my life. And now I've found her. Zheng Dingding, it's you. You can't run away from me." Zheng Dingding responded with a smile, "I won't escape," and initiated a kiss.
Upon returning home, Zheng Dingding received an exciting message from Mu Yixun, her Mr. Mcdreamy, a highly acclaimed young designer. Mu Yixun expressed his admiration for her cartoons and invited her to collaborate on a company bidding project. Overjoyed, Zheng Dingding instantly called Ning Weijin to share the news, exclaiming that her idol was now paying attention to her. Ning Weijin initially couldn't recall Mu Yixun, asking if he was her college senior.
Zheng Dingding clarified that Mu Yixun was her favorite young designer, renowned across various fields like animation and film, and responsible for many major movie posters. Ning Weijin then remembered that Ning Weixuan had purchased a collection of Mu Yixun's paintings. Zheng Dingding reiterated her excitement about the potential collaboration, saying, "Mu Yixun wants to cooperate with me!" Ning Weijin congratulated her, adding, "You're one step closer to your designer dream." Zheng Dingding admitted she was "too excited to sleep."
Episode 20 Recap
The next morning, Gao Ren attempted to rouse Ning Weixuan, who was still in bed at his apartment, implying she might be avoiding her brother. Ning Weixuan, feeling unwell, complained of severe stomach pain, attributing it to expired yogurt. Gao Ren, noticing her poor state, urged her to go to the hospital, but she refused, explaining her aversion to hospitals due to her mother's illness in childhood and the depressing atmosphere. She asked Gao Ren to buy her medicine instead.
Just then, Ning Weijin and Dingding arrived at Gao Ren's house. Hearing her brother's voice, Ning Weixuan quickly hid in her room. Dingding knocked, and Ning Weixuan reluctantly let her in. Dingding clarified the misunderstanding between the siblings, admitting she hadn't known about Ning Weijin's conflict with their father. She confessed to persistently urging Ning Weijin to visit, leading to his difficult decision. Understanding the situation, Ning Weixuan forgave her brother.
Dingding then excitedly shared the news that Mu Yixun wanted to collaborate with her, and Ning Weixuan was thrilled for her. Ning Weijin then drove Dingding to Mu Yixun's studio. Dingding entered alone, while Ning Weijin waited outside. The receptionist informed Dingding that Mu Yixun was out on business and asked her to wait in the lounge after submitting her resume. Meanwhile, Gao Ren received a call from a client about a follow-up visit at the hospital that afternoon.
Ning Weixuan, overhearing his conversation, dramatically faked intense stomach pain, recalling how her mother would rub her stomach to soothe it when she was a child. Alarmed, Gao Ren prepared to take her to the hospital, but she insisted on this old remedy. Gao Ren rubbed his hands together to warm them and placed them on her stomach. Seeing her apparent distress, he rescheduled his client's appointment for the next day, deciding to stay with Ning Weixuan.
Ning Weixuan, having successfully manipulated him, secretly smirked. Upon Mu Yixun's return, he met with Dingding. Despite her initial nervousness, she found him to be approachable and engaging, easing her tension as they chatted about topics she enjoyed. Dingding explained that her artistic inspiration stemmed from two cats: her former pet, Shrimp Ball, and her boyfriend’s cat, Little Scarf, a Garfield.
This emotional connection imbued her works with rich feeling, a quality Mu Yixun, being a fellow cat person and often incorporating cat elements into his own designs, deeply appreciated. He informed Dingding about an upcoming "cute pets" project and, acknowledging her love for cats and talent in designing pet toys, comics, and merchandise, expressed interest in her ideas.
He revealed he was consulting several designers, giving them time to develop and compete with their concepts to select the most suitable collaborator. Having no immediate inspiration, Dingding and Ning Weijin decided to seek it together. Ning Weijin suggested that the best way to find inspiration was through close contact with nature, combining a date with their search. Dingding agreed, and they planned to first go to Habitat Coffee for her drawing board.
Meanwhile, Chen Xun was looking at Dingding's comic strip, a smile gracing his lips. Wen Zixin, observing him, subtly remarked that "Little Scarf" in the comic must be Ning Weijin, causing Chen Xun’s smile to vanish. Unable to bear seeing Chen Xun upset, Cat called Dingding, but Dingding declined the call. Ning Weijin, who was with Dingding, asked her about the call, initially wondering if she was uncomfortable answering because of him.
Dingding clarified it was Cat calling and she hadn't wanted to contact anyone from Chen Xun's circle since the Zhong Miaoli incident. Ning Weijin stated he didn't mind her contacting Chen Xun, but he desired transparency in their relationship to prevent misunderstandings, unlike his parents. He explained that his mother's unconditional trust in his father led to her devastation when she discovered his infidelity. He emphasized that being completely open with him would be the greatest display of trust.
Understanding his perspective, Dingding promised to gradually learn to be more transparent and avoid suspicion. Later that day, Gao Ren brought soup and porridge for Ning Weixuan, only to find her unresponsive. Discovering she had a high fever and was unconscious, he panicked and rushed her to the hospital. The doctor severely reprimanded Gao Ren for the delay, stating that if she had arrived any later, she would have suffered a life-threatening acid-base imbalance due to dehydration.
Gao Ren admitted his mistake, his heart filled with fear at the thought of how close she came to danger. He asked if she would recover after the intravenous drip, but the doctor could not guarantee it, instructing him to complete the admission procedures first. As Ning Weixuan's condition began to improve after the IV, Gao Ren, relieved, playfully remarked that she was "still naughty."
Returning to Habitat Coffee to retrieve her drawing board, Dingding discovered an abandoned kitten with an injured leg outside. Noting its inflamed back leg, she and Ning Weijin immediately took it to a nearby pet hospital. The veterinarian treated the wound, and they arranged for the kitten to be vaccinated and dewormed. Dingding felt a strong resemblance to her previous cat, Shrimp Ball, and, convinced it was her beloved pet returning to her, named the kitten Shrimp Ball Junior.
She affectionately kissed the kitten, but Ning Weijin was reluctant to hold it, pointing out that it needed a bath and disinfection first. Dingding, unconcerned by such details, urged him to hold it. Ning Weijin reluctantly complied, his face clearly showing his discomfort. Shortly after, Ning Weijin received a call from Gao Ren informing him that Ning Weixuan was seriously ill. Ning Weijin and Dingding immediately rushed to the hospital.
Upon their arrival, they found Ning Weixuan playfully feigning extreme weakness and insisting Gao Ren feed her grapes. Gao Ren, relieved by Ning Weijin’s presence, took the opportunity to leave and find Shu Yiran. Ning Weijin consulted the doctor, who confirmed that Ning Weixuan was no longer in danger and could return home after her current intravenous drip. However, Ning Weixuan, hoping to prolong Gao Ren’s attention, wanted to stay in the hospital for a few more days.
Unable to convince her, Ning Weijin could only take Dingding and leave. Meanwhile, Gao Ren found Shu Yiran. She expressed her concern about Ning Weixuan’s deep affection for Gao Ren and urged him to be kinder to her. Gao Ren reiterated that he only regarded Ning Weixuan as a sister and wished she would move past her feelings for him.
He also advised Shu Yiran to let go of her feelings for Ning Weijin, suggesting that holding on would only lead to a tiring life. Shu Yiran, however, stated that she couldn’t simply abandon her feelings. She again pressed Gao Ren to treat Ning Weixuan better, emphasizing that while effort doesn't always guarantee reward, nobody would make an effort without some hope of return.
As Ning Weijin and Dingding left the hospital, Ning Weijin confided his worries about Ning Weixuan, noting her stubborn personality reminded him of their mother's unwavering commitment. Dingding reassured him, reminding him that Ning Weixuan was an adult with her own will. They then spoke of their own relationship, agreeing that while love wouldn't always be sweet and passion might eventually fade, as long as they were together, they would share everything, both the bitter and the sweet.
They decided to buy food for Shrimp Ball Junior. Meanwhile, Gao Ren returned to Ning Weixuan's room. He had called her earlier, but she hadn't answered. He expressed how worried he had been for her, emphasizing that she must promise him that, for anyone or anything, she would never harm herself. Ning Weixuan readily agreed. The encounter with Shrimp Ball Junior provided Dingding with a fresh surge of inspiration.
She aimed to portray the lives of stray animals in the city, focusing on their existence as animals rather than merely as pets. Working through the night, she developed a "dirty cat" character and promptly submitted her design to Mu Yixun’s studio. To his astonishment, Mu Yixun discovered that Dingding's new design was almost identical to one of his own previous works.
Episode 21 Recap
Zheng Dingding arrived at Mu Yixun's studio, where he first complimented her design for its technique and concept. He then presented a design, asking if she had seen it before. Dingding, shocked by the resemblance, tried to explain, but Mu Yixun revealed the design was his, published years ago under the pen name Mu Bai.
His assistant accused Dingding of intentionally copying his work, suggesting she would have plagiarized an unknown author and gotten away with it if she hadn't been unlucky enough to copy the original creator. Declaring plagiarism a taboo, Mu Yixun dismissed Dingding, invalidated her competitive presentation, and announced that his studio would issue a public statement on Weibo condemning her. Distraught, Dingding returned to the cafe and cried non-stop.
Ning Weixuan was angered by the accusations, while online comments flooded with condemnation, urging "Dingding Cat get out of the artist circle." Ning Weijin arrived and advised Dingding to stay offline, explaining that people would only believe what they wanted. He assured her, "Leave it to me. This is the work we created together. I won't let it be stigmatized."
Meanwhile, Mu Yixun's assistants discussed how frequently his work was plagiarized, noting that Dingding was unlucky to copy an early piece he published under a pen name, which few people knew belonged to him. Ning Weijin attempted to meet Mu Yixun at his studio multiple times. Each time, Mu Yixun was absent, but Ning Weijin left a message with the receptionist: "Zheng Dingding did not plagiarize."
Meanwhile, Shu Yiran asked Gao Ren about Ning Weijin's recent activities, to which Gao Ren replied he was unaware. Gao Ren attempted to engage her by showing an invitation for their old school's ballroom dancing competition, where they had been invited to judge and perform. He suggested they practice together, but Shu Yiran, still focused on Ning Weijin, declined, claiming other plans. She quickly left, and moments later, Ning Weijin called Gao Ren, narrowly missing Shu Yiran.
The "dirty cat" cafe experienced a significant drop in business, and Dingding was inundated with return orders. Feeling overwhelmed, Dingding sequestered herself in her upstairs studio. Ning Weixuan discovered that Dingding's Weibo account had been hacked, displaying aggressive messages. Ning Weijin quickly confiscated Dingding's phone, urging her to stay offline and even suggesting she move in with him temporarily. Dingding reassured them she was okay.
Moments later, a courier delivered a disturbing package to Dingding: a bloody doll accompanied by a threatening note. Ning Weijin instructed Ning Weixuan to screenshot the hacked Weibo page and kept both the doll and the screenshots as evidence. Shu Yiran relayed the news of Dingding's alleged plagiarism to Yin Fei, who harbored a strong negative opinion of Dingding.
Shu Yiran suggested Dingding might have been "anxious" to climb the professional ladder, but Yin Fei asserted that "a stain is always a stain." She expressed concern that Ning Weijin's deep involvement in Dingding's issue could "affect his reputation." Shu Yiran lamented Ning Weijin's apparent loss of principles, recalling how he fiercely fought plagiarism in the past. Yin Fei attributed his current actions to the idea that "love blinds" people.
Both agreed that only Ning Weijin's father, Lao Ning, possessed the authority to "wake him up" and convince him to break up with Dingding. Yin Fei reassured Shu Yiran that she and Ning Weijin's father supported her. Deeply distressed by the plagiarism accusations and the online backlash, Dingding drank heavily with Xiao Feng, feeling it was "so unfair." She voiced her fear that Ning Weijin might also believe she "plagiarized."
Xiao Feng reassured her that Ning Weijin was actively "trying to figure it out for you" and urged her to have confidence in their relationship. " Not all guys are Chen Xun," Xiao Feng stated, emphasizing her belief that Ning Weijin "must be on your side with determination." She added that if he were to waver now, he would be no different from Chen Xun, implying Dingding should then end the relationship.
Xiao Feng also offered a more positive outlook, suggesting that these "hardships" could serve as "materials for you artists" to inspire future comics once the ordeal was over. She lightened the mood by reminding Dingding to enjoy "good wine and crayfish." Ning Weijin meticulously reviewed copyright law, concluding that there were no specific provisions for artistic works, leaving Mu Yixun with "absolute initiative" if he insisted on the plagiarism claim.
He explained this to Xiao Feng, realizing that "the only way now is to get in touch with Mu Yixun." Ning Weijin, having "witnessed the whole process of Dingding's creation," believed he could prove her innocence, but Xiao Feng rightly pointed out that his verbal testimony alone would not convince Mu Yixun.
Ning Weixuan uncovered a crucial clue on Mu Yixun's social media: a photo from years ago showing him with a stray cat that bore an uncanny resemblance to Shrimp Ball Junior. She realized this was the "source of things" and explained it to Ning Weijin, clarifying "why the two works are so similar." Ning Weijin planned to take Shrimp Ball Junior to Mu Yixun, confident that seeing the cat would lead to understanding.
However, Gao Ren cautioned against this, likening it to his own experience with academic plagiarism, where he would not have listened to explanations from the plagiarizer. He advised them to "try to hit on what he likes" to gain an audience with Mu Yixun. Later, Ning Weixuan discovered the ballroom dancing competition invitations in Gao Ren's pocket. She eagerly expressed a desire to watch him dance.
Gao Ren attempted to dismiss the invitations, claiming they were "void" and he was "not going anyway" because he lacked a "dancing partner." Recognizing an opportunity, Ning Weixuan immediately offered to be his partner. Mu Yixun's cat, Dora, had been suffering from depression and refusing to eat for two days, causing him considerable distress. He expressed frustration with veterinarians who offered diagnoses but no effective treatment.
His assistant mentioned that while pet communicators were common abroad, they were rare in their country and offered to search for one. Coincidentally, a package arrived containing contact information for a "Pet Psychology Clinic." Believing his deceased cat was sending him a blessing from the "Cat Planet," Mu Yixun instructed his assistant to immediately book an appointment for three o'clock that afternoon. With Mu Yixun's appointment confirmed, Ning Weijin declared, "the fish was hooked" and mobilized everyone.
Knowing Ning Weixuan's expertise as a pet communicator, he had Xiao Feng hastily set up a temporary "Pet Psychology Clinic." They rapidly decorated a room and prepared appropriate signage, with Ning Weixuan providing specific aesthetic directions for the clinic sign, aiming for a look that was both "classic and graded" and had "a hint of black for calmness" within its colorful background.
Ning Weijin informed Dingding he would pick her up at 2:30 PM with Shrimp Ball Junior, keeping the plan a secret. Mu Yixun arrived at the newly established clinic with his assistant, who voiced concerns about its legitimacy since it was not listed online. Mu Yixun opted to "observe first." Inside, Ning Weixuan, Yun Sheng, and Xiao Lei, acting as initial clients, presented an agitated cat.
Ning Weixuan calmly interacted with it, accurately diagnosing its fear, which she attributed to a traumatic experience at a previous vet visit. Impressed by her abilities, Mu Yixun then introduced himself and handed over Dora. Ning Weixuan precisely identified Dora's symptoms—loss of appetite, disinterest in canned food, and social withdrawal—as "early symptoms of depression," differentiating it from an organic illness. She then proposed that they search for "the source of its problem." Ning Weixuan placed Dora on the ground.
Just then, Dingding entered, holding Shrimp Ball Junior. Dora instantly showed signs of renewed interest and spirit, a reaction Mu Yixun noted, recognizing Shrimp Ball Junior's striking resemblance to his beloved, deceased cat, Oreo. He observed that Dora had been depressed since Oreo's passing, and the presence of Shrimp Ball Junior clearly stirred a memory. Dingding clarified that Shrimp Ball Junior was a stray cat she found and shared her story with Mu Yixun.
Mu Yixun was visibly moved by Shrimp Ball Junior, confirming its likeness to Oreo and asking to hold it. Ning Weijin explained that Shrimp Ball Junior was the stray cat he and Dingding found, and it served as the inspiration for Dingding's "dirty cat" design, with Ning Weijin having "witnessed the whole process of her creation."
Xiao Feng further supported Dingding by presenting her initial design drafts for "dirty cat," emphasizing that all of them were "based on" Shrimp Ball Junior. He asserted that the striking "similarity" between Dingding's work and Mu Yixun's was not plagiarism but rather a shared "love for pets," and that all of Dingding's designs were otherwise "original." Mu Yixun, realizing his mistake, admitted, "It seems that I blamed you wrongly," and understood Dora's depression was due to missing Oreo.
He then made an "abrupt" request to adopt Shrimp Ball Junior. Seeing the immediate bond between Dora and Shrimp Ball Junior, Dingding agreed, unwilling to "separate them." With the misunderstanding resolved, Mu Yixun expressed his gratitude and stated that there was "no reason our cooperation can't continue," asking if Dingding "still wants to cooperate with me." Dingding enthusiastically agreed. However, Ning Weijin intervened, demanding a formal apology from Mu Yixun.
He pointed out that Mu Yixun's "careless" and uninvestigated public accusation of plagiarism, posted on Weibo, had severely "damaged her whole life and reputation." Mu Yixun sincerely apologized for his rash actions, promising to "make a formal statement apologizing" to clear Dingding's name and hoping for her forgiveness, which Dingding readily granted. Ning Weijin then formally introduced himself, "My name is Ning Weijin." To express her gratitude, Dingding hosted a celebratory dinner.
Ning Weixuan playfully egged on the group, insisting Dingding give Ning Weijin a proper reward. Dingding, slightly embarrassed, put food on Ning Weijin's plate. Ning Weijin gave Ning Weixuan a stern look, silencing her, and then whispered to Dingding, "I'll get the reward I'm owed." Meanwhile, Gao Ren received a call from Shu Yiran, who had learned of his involvement and asked if he was helping Dingding.
Gao Ren casually confirmed he was "just here to help" and "do Ning Weijin a favor," further irritating Shu Yiran who, hearing the festive background noise, angrily hung up and told him to find a different dance partner. Soon after, Mu Yixun's apology statement was released on Weibo. It confirmed that "Ms. Zheng Dingding's design draft is indeed original" and the similarity to his work was "purely coincidental."
He apologized for his previous accusations and his fans' "improper words and deeds," and "sincerely invite Ms. Zheng Dingding to cooperate with my studio in depth." Dingding was overjoyed upon reading the statement. Later, while they were together, Ning Weijin reminded Dingding of his earlier whisper, "I told you. I'll get the reward I'm owed," before pulling her closer.
Episode 22 Recap
Ning Weixuan arrived at Gao Ren's office, eager to be his dance partner for the school's International Style of Ballroom Dancing event. She told him her cafe was thriving and she was there for him. When asked her purpose, she offered to be his dance partner, claiming she had experience from a ballroom dance club abroad and wouldn't be a burden.
Gao Ren, who was to be a judge, worried about their opening dance being a performance and his reputation as a three-time champion if they failed. Having already been turned down by Shu Yiran, he reluctantly agreed to let Ning Weixuan try out, warning that if she wasn't good, the plan was off. Ning Weixuan enthusiastically insisted they go practice immediately, even seeing through his lie about having a surgery. He jokingly lamented never succeeding in lying to her.
Meanwhile, Zheng Dingding officially joined Mu Yixun's studio. Mu Yixun welcomed her, acknowledging that their past misunderstandings were resolved and they were now partners. Dingding expressed her commitment to work hard and learn from Mu Yixun and her new colleagues. During their dance practice, Ning Weixuan, struggling in high heels, repeatedly twisted her ankle. Gao Ren, worried about her previous injury worsening, tried to stop her. She insisted she was fine, citing her brother's approval of exercise.
Gao Ren clarified that it meant appropriate exercise, not strenuous activity, and attempted to take her home. Ning Weixuan refused, confidently stating her athletic prowess would allow her to learn in a week what others took a month for, assuring him she would uphold his champion's reputation. Seeing her pain, Gao Ren eventually feigned exhaustion, saying, "I'm tired. I'd like to rest."
Ning Weixuan questioned his need for rest with the competition nearing, to which he retorted, "I'm an old man, okay?" He then helped her to a seat and applied an ice pack to her ankle. Elsewhere, Chen Xun was facing a severe crisis at Chengpin Life. He tried to reassure a supplier, Mr. Dai, that he would pay soon and urged him to continue shipping goods, leveraging their long-standing cooperation.
Shortly after, he received news that all distributors had gone on strike. He instructed his team to calm the distributors while he sought funds. Cat reported that many suppliers were demanding immediate payment by specific dates, and banks had refused loans due to the high risk. Chen Xun explained his plan to speak with logistics managers to restart delivery and slowly recover funds, but acknowledged the difficulty in securing money without bank support.
Wen Zixin's mother called, having heard rumors from a neighbor's son that Chen Xun's company was in dire straits and nearing bankruptcy. She urged Wen Zixin to leave Chen Xun and prioritize herself. Wen Zixin dismissed the rumors as malicious gossip and affirmed her commitment to Chen Xun, telling her mother to stop interfering. She then went to Chen Xun’s office, interrupting his argument with a supplier over unannounced closures and delayed orders.
Wen Zixin offered her personal savings, stating that problems solvable by money were not insurmountable. When Chen Xun hesitated, she argued that if he accepted Dingding's help, he should accept hers, especially as his assistant and Chengpin's spokesperson. She emphasized that the company's downfall would also impact her public image. Chen Xun tried to assure her he would shield her, but Wen Zixin clarified her concern was for him, not herself.
She insisted they were "on the same boat" and must overcome the challenge together. Later, Gao Ren brought Ning Weixuan back to the coffee shop. Yunsheng, noticing her injured foot, shared his dancing philosophy: true dance comes from body rhythm, not just memorizing footwork. He demonstrated, impressing everyone. Inspired, Ning Weixuan immediately asked Gao Ren to dance with her to try the new "rhythm" approach. As they danced, Gao Ren's phone rang. It was Shu Yiran.
He quickly assured her he was available and would come right away, instructing the cafe staff to look after Ning Weixuan. Ning Weixuan protested, but Gao Ren left hastily, saying they would finish their discussion another day. Dingding visited Ning Weijin at the hospital, bringing food for him and his colleagues. She overheard staff discussing Chengpin Life's troubles, including undelivered fresh fruit orders and unresponsive customer service, with speculation that the boss had absconded.
Dingding expressed her worry to Ning Weijin, dismissing the rumors of Chen Xun fleeing. She insisted it was impossible, highlighting Chen Xun's deep devotion to Chengpin as if it were his everything, and how she had witnessed its growth firsthand. Ning Weijin gently reminded her that her worry wouldn't change anything now that she had left the company. Dingding agreed, reasoning that Chen Xun was likely already addressing the issues.
Chen Xun convened his PR team, angrily demanding to know why they hadn't responded to the rampant negative online content. A PR employee explained the surge of "paid internet trolls" and "black posts," indicating deliberate manipulation. Another added that the sheer volume of customer complaints about undelivered orders and refunds was creating an echo chamber, easily swayed by negative narratives. They requested more time to strategize effectively.
Cat then reported that the refund system had crashed due to the overwhelming number of requests. Chen Xun then took Wen Zixin's bank card and instructed Cat to have the finance department process offline refunds according to the order sequence, while the PR team was ordered to continue finding a solution for the negative publicity. Reporters swarmed Chengpin's offices, seeking Chen Xun, who initially tried to avoid them. Cat suggested seizing the opportunity to clarify the situation and prevent misreporting.
Chen Xun agreed and asked Cat to find a trustworthy journalist for a live interview, declining Cat's suggestion to include Wen Zixin to avoid involving her. During the live broadcast, Chen Xun apologized for the logistical problems caused by their strategy errors, explaining that supply chain issues had affected distribution, but refunds were being processed, with 80% already completed. He requested more time.
A journalist then pressed him on rumors of Chengpin's logistics system collapsing, a broken capital chain, and impending bankruptcy. Chen Xun vehemently denied this, asserting the company's financial stability and active shareholder support. Another journalist questioned the damage to Chengpin's reputation, and Chen Xun expressed confidence in a fair judgment.
The journalist then shifted focus to Wen Zixin, asking if, as a public figure, she was aware of the company's debt issues and probing into her past romantic relationship with Chen Xun, including why they broke up and if she was the reason he had canceled his wedding. Chen Xun intervened, halting the interview. Afterward, the media largely ignored Chen Xun's clarifications, instead publishing scandalous stories portraying Wen Zixin as a homewrecker.
Meanwhile, Gao Ren and Ning Weixuan were supposed to be practicing dance. Gao Ren received a call for an urgent surgery, texting Ning Weixuan he would be late and she could leave. She replied she would wait and practice alone, sending him updates. Gao Ren, seeing her messages, felt his resolve waver. He recalled Ning Weijin's stark warning: "No matter what Ning Weixuan does, don't change your mind. You can't fall in love with her."
He inwardly chastised himself, reminding himself she was his sister and he had promised Ning Weijin. He then texted Ning Weixuan, telling her he couldn't come due to an emergency and she should go home, unkindly adding that she "can't dance well anyway." She immediately called him, but his phone was off. Furious, she threw her shoes and cried in the dance studio. Desperate, Cat visited Dingding at her coffee shop.
He explained that the crisis stemmed from Chen Xun's ambitious but flawed plan to abandon reliable third-party logistics in favor of an underdeveloped in-house system. When the new system failed and the spurned third-party companies refused to cooperate, the entire supply chain collapsed. Cat begged Dingding to return, but their conversation was cut short by Ning Weixuan, who arrived and angrily berated Cat for bothering Dingding.
As Cat was leaving, Dingding advised him that the immediate priority must be to re-establish good relations with the third-party logistics partners. Later, Cat arrived at Dingding's house, desperate for help. He explained that third-party logistics companies were now demanding two-year contracts and full upfront payment, having seemingly colluded in protest against Chengpin unilaterally abandoning them. He pleaded with Dingding to return. He then confessed that "he" was behind the Zhong Miaoli incident, not Chen Xun.
He admitted to hiring Zhong Miaoli and taking photos to expose Ning Weijin to Dingding, hoping she would return to Chen Xun. He had sent the photos directly to Ning Weijin, not his superior, and was shocked at how the situation escalated. He revealed that Chen Xun had taken the blame because he was angry Dingding didn't trust him, and had almost fired Cat over the incident.
Cat appealed to Dingding's past relationship with Chen Xun and urged her to help Chengpin. Ning Weijin then emerged from Dingding's room. He acknowledged Chengpin's plight but firmly told Cat that Dingding had resigned and had no obligation to help, warning Cat against using "moral kidnapping" to force her. Dingding handed Cat a USB drive containing her old Chengpin work data, including negotiation conditions and preferences of logistics partners, stating this was all she could do.
Agreeing with Ning Weijin, she told Cat that she believed Chen Xun could handle the crisis and that she wouldn't be much help anyway. Cat thanked them and left. Dingding then asked Ning Weijin if he thought she was heartless. He replied, "No," explaining he didn't want her to return to her old habit of sacrificing herself for others. He reminded her she now had her own career and him, and they should both move forward.
Dingding assured him she understood and wouldn't go back. Ning Weijin then asked if she wanted to sleep more, but she declined, suggesting they go grocery shopping for him to cook. He happily agreed.
Episode 23 Recap
Shu Yiran approached Gao Ren, inquiring about Ning Weijin's whereabouts. Gao Ren, having no knowledge, found Shu Yiran leaving abruptly. He then produced an invitation from their alma mater, detailing a ballroom dancing competition where they were both invited to serve as judges. Gao Ren suggested they practice beforehand to avoid any potential mockery from younger students upon their return.
However, Shu Yiran’s interest solely revolved around topics concerning Ning Weijin, and she showed no engagement with anything unrelated to him. Just moments after Shu Yiran's departure, Ning Weijin called Gao Ren, a brief but significant missed connection. Wen Zixin visited a hotel to meet a rich former suitor, hoping to borrow two million yuan for Mr. Chen to overcome his financial difficulties.
However, the man hinted at a sexual favor in return for the loan, which Wen Zixin firmly rejected. Her refusal enraged the suitor, who then insulted her, accusing her of having abortions for Mr. Chen and pretending to be innocent. He attempted to sexually assault Wen Zixin, forcing her to struggle and break free from him, though her clothes were torn in the process as she escaped the hotel.
Outside the hotel, Zheng Dingding accidentally bumped into Wen Zixin, who was disheveled and shaken. Mistaking Wen Zixin's appearance as another instance of abandoning Mr. Chen during his time of crisis, Zheng Dingding criticized her harshly. Wen Zixin retorted, "Why are you judging me? You're the one who ditched Chen Xun and Chengpin." Distressed, Wen Zixin tried to leave without explaining but stumbled and fell. Zheng Dingding then stepped forward to help her up.
After assisting Wen Zixin and talking with her, Zheng Dingding realized her mistake and became deeply moved by Wen Zixin's sacrifices for Mr. Chen. She told Wen Zixin, "I won't go back to help him, but I can help you." She decided to help Mr. Chen by assisting Wen Zixin.
As Ning Weijin picked up Zheng Dingding from outside the supermarket, Zheng Dingding recounted her encounter with Wen Zixin, explaining that Wen Zixin had nearly been sexually assaulted while trying to borrow money for Mr. Chen. She then informed Ning Weijin of her intention to help Wen Zixin, and by extension, Mr. Chen. Ning Weijin was displeased, questioning the difference between helping Wen Zixin and helping Mr. Chen.
He urged Zheng Dingding to stop worrying about irrelevant people and issues, which led to a heated argument. Zheng Dingding asserted her clear conscience in helping a friend and told Ning Weijin she had nothing more to say if he didn't trust her, before demanding to be let out of the car.
After angrily getting out of the car, Zheng Dingding immediately called her friend Xiaofeng, ordering spicy crayfish and iced coke, and demanding Xiaofeng’s presence to listen to her complaints. After hearing Zheng Dingding's grievances, Xiaofeng suggested that Zheng Dingding was in the wrong. She analogized former partners to nails, leaving a hole even after removal, and advised Zheng Dingding to maintain a distance from Mr. Chen, rather than constantly displaying the "hole" to Ning Weijin.
Xiaofeng urged her to communicate with Ning Weijin and resolve the issue. Meanwhile, Gao Ren and Ning Weijin were running together. Gao Ren encouraged Ning Weijin to call Zheng Dingding, but Ning Weijin refused. Gao Ren then philosophized about qualities of a good man, emphasizing the importance of being flexible and willing to compromise. He pressed Ning Weijin, asking why he opposed Zheng Dingding helping Mr. Chen, suggesting Ning Weijin might fear a rekindling of their old romance.
Ning Weijin explained that Zheng Dingding was too emotional and would blame herself heavily if the endeavor failed, and he simply didn’t want her to get hurt again. However, since Zheng Dingding had already made her decision, Ning Weijin felt there was nothing more he could say and would respect her choice, though he hinted he wouldn't remain a passive observer.
Later that night, both Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding lay awake, each contemplating texting the other but hesitant to be the first to reach out, thinking "the one who starts talking first will lose." Simultaneously, they both sent each other texts asking, "Are you asleep?" The next morning, Ning Weijin visited Zheng Dingding to apologize for his words the previous day. Zheng Dingding also apologized for making a rash decision without consulting him.
Ning Weijin, having come to terms with it, stated that he would support her, believing that if he forbade her, it would leave a lingering regret. He preferred she resolve the matter swiftly so she could return to him wholeheartedly. Zheng Dingding expressed concerns about her pending orders and other tasks, but Ning Weijin offered to help, explaining that as an Associate Chief Surgeon, he didn't need to be in the office daily, especially on a weekend.
He playfully embraced her, calling her narcissistic when she praised his youthful success, then encouraged her to go to Chengpin, wishing her a swift return. When Zheng Dingding arrived at Chengpin, a colleague named Cat, who had previously sought her help, expressed surprise and relief at her return. Zheng Dingding then met with Mr. Chen. She made it clear that her return was solely to assist Wen Zixin, not him, to avoid any misunderstandings on his part.
She then revealed the extent of Wen Zixin's sacrifice, detailing how Wen Zixin had attempted to borrow money from a former suitor and was nearly sexually assaulted. Zheng Dingding emphasized that Wen Zixin was genuinely devoted to him and that any success in overcoming the company's difficulties should be credited entirely to Wen Zixin’s efforts and sacrifices. Gao Ren tried to stop Ning Weixuan from dancing, concerned about her sprain, but she insisted on continuing.
Later, Gao Ren found Ning Weixuan diligently practicing alone in the dance studio. He was moved by her dedication, and when she almost fell, he rushed to support her. Caught in the act, Gao Ren apologized for previously standing her up and his ill-mannered attitude. Ning Weixuan seized the opportunity, pleading for a chance to dance just one routine with him. Gao Ren agreed, but on the condition that she follow his instructions to avoid embarrassing him.
Ning Weixuan enthusiastically agreed and immediately pulled him back into practice, determined to make the most of their limited time before the competition. Upon her return to Chengpin, Zheng Dingding immediately began outlining solutions for Mr. Chen, stressing the urgency of establishing better relations with third-party logistics by presenting a cost-optimized plan, especially since the company was facing severe funding issues after shareholder withdrawals.
She explained the immediate priority was to restore Chengpin's public image to regain the trust of logistics companies. Zheng Dingding would handle the design and public relations aspects of the plan, while Wen Zixin was tasked with contacting popular celebrity Zhou Yichen to participate in Chengpin's e-commerce event.
Wen Zixin met with Zhou Yichen, who, now a popular actress, initially tried to embarrass Wen Zixin by recalling how she never had to pay to get help and sarcastically suggesting Wen Zixin rely on her beauty and connections, implying she used to use them to secure favors. As Zhou Yichen prepared to leave, Wen Zixin quickly interjected, acknowledging her tarnished reputation but highlighting her valuable resources.
She revealed an opportunity with a European luxury brand seeking an Asian spokesperson for its expansion into the Asian market. Wen Zixin offered to introduce Zhou Yichen to the brand's project manager, a proposition that immediately captured Zhou Yichen's attention and secured her agreement to participate in Chengpin's e-commerce event. After a long day of work, Wen Zixin returned to Chengpin just as Ning Weijin arrived to deliver dinner for Zheng Dingding.
Zheng Dingding, seeing Wen Zixin’s exhaustion, offered her own meal. She then asked Wen Zixin about the meeting with Zhou Yichen. Wen Zixin confirmed she had secured Zhou Yichen’s participation without incurring costs, by leveraging a valuable resource. Ning Weijin, upon hearing this, understood Zheng Dingding’s strategy to use celebrity endorsement to salvage Chengpin’s reputation. However, he expressed skepticism, believing that such a method would only provide temporary relief and might be seen as opportunistic.
Ning Weijin then proposed an alternative approach: using public welfare initiatives to rebuild Chengpin’s image. He cautioned against turning charity into hypocrisy, emphasizing that if their motivation was merely opportunistic image redemption, he would rather they not proceed. Zheng Dingding assured him of her sincerity. She then suggested to Mr. Chen that they organize a public welfare activity centered on health, aligning with Chengpin's core theme of healthy living. She also proposed collaborating with hospitals for a charity clinic, citing a recent vaccine incident as a relevant context.
Episode 24 Recap
Driven to desperation, Wen Zixin sought help from a wealthy second-generation man who had previously pursued her. He arranged to meet her at a hotel, where he made lewd demands, insisting she spend the night with him, and cruelly mocked her for having had multiple abortions. Enraged, Wen Zixin kicked him and escaped the room. Fleeing the hotel in disheveled clothes, Wen Zixin was seen by passersby, who made assumptions.
Dingding, passing by, also misunderstood the situation, urging Wen Zixin not to abandon Chen Xun during his difficult time. Wen Zixin, upset, retorted that Dingding was the one who had abandoned Chen Xun and Chengpin. In her haste, Wen Zixin twisted her ankle. Dingding quickly helped her to sit down, and Wen Zixin clarified the misunderstanding. Dingding was surprised by how far Wen Zixin was willing to go for Chen Xun.
Recognizing Dingding's lingering care for Chengpin and Chen Xun, Wen Zixin, despite her initial reluctance, asked Dingding to help Chen Xun, emphasizing that ultimately, Chen Xun should be grateful only to Wen Zixin. Dingding agreed to help Wen Zixin, but made it clear she would not directly help Chen Xun. Dingding informed Ning Weijin of her decision to help at Chengpin. Ning Weijin was displeased, questioning why she always worried about irrelevant people and matters.
Dingding maintained she was simply helping a friend with a clear conscience, and if Ning Weijin doubted her, she couldn't help it. She angrily got out of the car and left. Later, Xiao Feng brought crayfish and beer to console Dingding, advising her not to fight with Ning Weijin over an ex. He stated that the best way to deal with an ex is to "never ever contact him."
Meanwhile, Gao Ren tried to reason with Ning Weijin, asking if he was afraid Dingding and Chen Xun might rekindle their old flame. Ning Weijin explained his concern was Dingding's emotional sensitivity, fearing she would suffer if things didn't work out. Gao Ren suggested he discuss this openly with Dingding, but Ning Weijin saw no need for extensive explanation. That night, both Dingding and Ning Weijin lay awake, secretly hoping for a message from the other.
After some time, Dingding decided to forgive Ning Weijin first, thinking of "Little scarf," and sent him a WeChat message. Almost simultaneously, Ning Weijin sent an identical message, leading to their mutual forgiveness—a testament to their unspoken understanding. The next day, Ning Weijin met Dingding at a café, where they both apologized. Ning Weijin realized that if he stubbornly prevented Dingding from helping, it would create a lingering issue for her.
He suggested she go to Chengpin sooner, resolve matters quickly, and return with a peaceful mind. With many unfulfilled orders from her online store, Dingding planned to complete her own work before heading to Chengpin. Ning Weijin, who was not working that day as a deputy chief physician, stayed to help her with shipments, urging her to go resolve Chengpin's issues. Dingding praised his capabilities, and Ning Weijin unassumingly accepted the compliment.
Chengpin's crisis had led to numerous employee resignations, leaving Chen Xun and Cat visibly distressed. Just then, Dingding and Wen Zixin arrived, and Cat rushed downstairs to greet them. Dingding felt a profound sense of change upon returning to Chengpin, which was now barely sustained by only Chen Xun and Cat. Wen Zixin, not wanting to hog credit, encouraged Dingding to go greet Chen Xun.
Dingding apologized to Chen Xun for their past misunderstanding, but he reassured her he held no grudge. She then emphasized that her current help was for Wen Zixin, who had made significant sacrifices for him, "almost taken advantage of" to help him. Dingding urged Chen Xun not to betray Wen Zixin's deep loyalty after the crisis. Later, Ning Weixuan was not in a good mood. Seeing Ning Weijin involved with delivery orders (presumably for Dingding), she grew even sadder.
She lamented that even her "emotional simpleton" brother was helping Dingding, yet Gao Ren still didn't understand her feelings. Dingding assessed Chengpin's grim situation: staff departures, investors withdrawing, and logistics companies refusing cooperation. She proposed a strategy to immediately create positive buzz for the company to restore its image, thereby regaining the trust of logistics partners. Dingding planned to design a comprehensive solution for Wen Zixin to implement.
Meanwhile, a distracted Gao Ren wandered into the dance studio, where he found Ning Weixuan practicing. He apologized for breaking their previous appointment and for hurtful words. Ning Weixuan only wanted to dance one song with him. Gao Ren reluctantly agreed, but insisted she follow his lead. Wen Zixin reached out to Zhou Yichen, a popular actress from her former modeling agency, hoping to secure her for a commercial performance for Chengpin, promising a generous fee.
Zhou Yichen, however, cynically suggested Wen Zixin leverage her rich contacts for quicker solutions. Understanding Zhou Yichen's priorities, Wen Zixin offered to relinquish a lucrative European luxury brand endorsement she was currently negotiating, which finally convinced Zhou Yichen to discuss the collaboration seriously. Dingding hoped the celebrity endorsement would mitigate some of Chengpin's negative publicity.
Ning Weijin suggested incorporating a charity element for even greater impact, but stressed that the philanthropic efforts must be genuine, not merely a means to restore Chengpin's image. Dingding acknowledged his point, mentioning that Chengpin had, in fact, collaborated with many charitable organizations in the past but never publicized it. Dingding then proposed the idea of organizing a public charity event. Wen Zixin suggested inviting Ning Weijin’s hospital to collaborate.
Chen Xun initially objected, feeling that a breast department doctor like Ning Weijin might not be suitable for the theme. However, Wen Zixin clarified that most of Chengpin’s customers were women, and with the following month being National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a breast free clinic would be highly relevant. She also mentioned contacting the Pink Ribbon organization for support. Chen Xun then agreed to the proposal and asked Dingding for her input.
Dingding set a condition: Chen Xun must commit to genuine, long-term charity work, not just a temporary measure to repair Chengpin's reputation. Dingding shared this plan with Ning Weixuan, who reacted with shock and accused Dingding of creating a difficult situation by asking her current boyfriend to assist her ex-boyfriend, comparing it to an "angelic bitch" character in a TV drama. She dramatically asked Dingding who she wished to offend: her ex or her current boyfriend.
When Dingding approached Ning Weijin about the free clinic, he agreed immediately, stating that such a public welfare initiative would benefit his hospital and that he also wanted to "go and enrich his experience," hinting at his curiosity about Chen Xun. At the free clinic event, during a live interview, Chen Xun announced Chengpin's plans to launch an online medicine sales channel, expressing confidence in medicine safety.
Ning Weijin, however, subtly challenged him, pointing out the necessity of administrative permits and physical store foundations, which Chengpin might currently lack. Chen Xun countered, mentioning the ongoing permit applications and their successful cooperation with Gaoxin Hospital as a foundation for stable supply. Ning Weijin then corrected him, clarifying that pharmaceutical factories, not hospitals, were the true supply channels.
This subtle sparring, much to Dingding's concern (who internally felt Ning Weijin wanted to 'crash the party'), continued when a reporter asked about using celebrity endorsements and charity to divert public attention. Chen Xun dismissed the claim, emphasizing long-term hospital cooperation and donations, while Ning Weijin advised against blindly believing health articles from social media, including one about a "British expert." Ning Weijin capably handled the challenging questions and contributed effectively, easing Dingding's worries.
After the clinic, Chen Xun publicly repaid Dingding the 60,000 yuan she had lent him, along with the cash equivalent of her company shares, directly in front of Ning Weijin. Chen Xun declared that this transaction settled their accounts, adding that it would "put Dr. Ning's mind at ease." Ning Weijin, however, confidently responded that he had "no concerns at all." Chen Xun then entrusted Dingding's care to Ning Weijin before departing with Wen Zixin.
Hospital staff Ding Yang and Miaomiao, fearing Ning Weijin's usual strictness, hesitated to ask for leave. To their astonishment, Ning Weijin had already arranged it for them, a change attributed by colleagues to "the power of love" making him "a new person." Shu Yiran attempted to invite Ning Weijin for lunch, but he promptly declined, already having plans with Dingding.
Shu Yiran scoffed at their "mushy" behavior, but Ning Weijin calmly described it as "something lovers will do" and suggested she "may need to fall in love." Later, as Dingding headed to meet Ning Weijin for lunch, she received a call from her boss, Mr. Mu, who urgently needed her back at the studio for a client design discussion. Reluctantly, Dingding called Ning Weijin to cancel their date, both expressing how much they missed each other.
A new doctor, Dr. Xiang, joined the plastic surgery department. Nurses buzzed with admiration for his gentlemanly conduct and stability, stirring feelings of jealousy in Gao Ren. Dr. Xiang’s assistant arrived with welcoming gifts for everyone, further cementing his popularity. Gao Ren initially hoped Dr. Xiang was facing trouble from patients, but learned that the crowd surrounding him consisted of loyal former clients who had followed him to the new hospital.
Finding Ning Weijin alone after Dingding canceled, Shu Yiran discussed his research, revealing she had contacted Ade Tang's student and gathered valuable information about breast cancer drug development, even applying to join his research team. Ning Weijin appreciated her efforts but playfully warned her not to "hold him back." With Dingding's help, Chengpin slowly recovered. Chen Xun was overjoyed and invited Wen Zixin out for dinner, not as her boss, but "as your man."
At the gym, Gao Ren initially enjoyed the admiration of female gym-goers for his physique, but his moment in the spotlight was abruptly taken by Dr. Xiang's arrival. Women flocked to Dr. Xiang for advice on cosmetic procedures, particularly nose jobs. Dr. Xiang encouraged them to consider injections for a more upturned nose.
Gao Ren, however, intervened, advocating for natural beauty and discouraging unnecessary cosmetic surgery, leading to a heated debate between the two doctors about their differing philosophies on beauty and plastic surgery. Knowing Dingding hadn't cooked for Ning Weijin and had recently stood him up, Xiao Feng helped her bake cookies, advising her to be proactive in their relationship. Dingding then messaged Ning Weijin that her "love express" was on the way.
Ning Weijin’s visibly happy reaction to Dingding’s message prompted Shu Yiran to call him an "idiot in love" and accuse Dingding of "captivating" him. Ning Weijin directly asked if Shu Yiran disliked Dingding. Shu Yiran then posed a hypothetical question: if his friends disliked his girlfriend and didn't want them together, would he value their opinions?
Ning Weijin unequivocally stated he would choose his girlfriend, explaining he would "respect their decision" not to meet if they disliked her, and that in love, "what matters is love," not compatibility. Frustrated, Shu Yiran called Gao Ren and vented her anger on him. Gao Ren, in turn, took his frustration out on Ning Weixuan during their dance practice, harshly criticizing her moves and calling her "an octopus."
Ning Weixuan retaliated by intentionally missing steps and stepping on his foot, declaring she would not be his "punching bag." Practicing dance late into the night, Ning Weixuan’s noise kept Ning Weijin awake. She playfully suggested he use her as an excuse to visit Dingding, claiming he couldn't sleep at home and needed to "borrow a room" for a romantic night, offering to help her with her design work.
Ning Weijin, initially hesitant about appearing to have "an agenda," drove to Dingding's apartment. However, after texting her and learning she was struggling with "inspiration" and wanted to be alone, he decided not to disturb her, sending a message to "take care" before driving away.
Episode 25 Recap
Upon receiving an urgent order for felt toys, Zheng Dingding found herself unable to keep her planned date with Ning Weijin. Instead of being upset, Ning Weijin went to her home and helped her work through the night to complete the order. He even tried his hand at stitching the toys, creating some technically valid but aesthetically "ugly" stitches, and playfully claimed one of the finished dolls for himself. Dingding was deeply touched and grateful for his unwavering support.
After successfully completing her design work, Zheng Dingding received positive feedback and good reviews for her felt toys. She enthusiastically called Ning Weijin to invite him for dinner, an invitation he eagerly accepted with sweet affirmations. However, shortly after, Mu Yixun called Dingding, informing her that her design proposal had been approved and required her immediate presence at his studio to discuss details over lunch. This forced Dingding to call Ning Weijin again to cancel their planned date.
Though disappointed, Ning Weijin understood, and they shared a reluctant, sweet goodbye before ending the call. Meanwhile, Wen Zixin proposed a public welfare free clinic in partnership with a hospital, leveraging Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Chengpin's predominantly female customer base. Dingding agreed to inquire with Ning Weijin about his hospital's cooperation, but stipulated that Chengpin commit to the initiative long-term, not just for temporary image restoration. Chen Xun readily agreed to this condition.
Dingding initially hesitated to approach Ning Weijin after his sister, Ning Weixuan, advised against involving her current boyfriend in her ex-boyfriend's company. However, Ning Weijin, emphasizing his desire for complete honesty between them, directly asked Dingding if anything was troubling her. She then hesitantly explained the free clinic idea, and he agreed without hesitation. The free clinic, bolstered by a celebrity's endorsement, attracted significant public interest and media coverage.
Ning Weijin and his hospital colleagues provided medical consultations to the public. When Chen Xun expressed his gratitude to Ning Weijin, Ning Weijin subtly clarified their respective relationships, stating that Chen Xun was merely "just friends" with Dingding, while Ning Weijin, as her boyfriend, naturally offered his full, heartfelt support. Later, during a live stream from the event, Chen Xun announced Chengpin's intention to launch an online pharmacy.
Ning Weijin promptly interjected, highlighting the extensive regulatory procedures required for online medicine sales, suggesting Chengpin might not yet meet the necessary standards. Chen Xun quickly countered that the relevant procedures were already underway. Dingding observed their back-and-forth, realizing that Ning Weijin's ready agreement to participate was partly motivated by a desire to playfully compete with Chen Xun on air. Despite the banter, Ning Weijin's extensive knowledge ensured that their discussion did not harm Chengpin's reputation.
After the successful conclusion of the free clinic, Chen Xun presented Dingding with a card containing the money she had previously lent him, along with her share of the company's dividends. He expressed his hope that, by accepting this, all past ties between them would be severed, thus fully reassuring Ning Weijin and genuinely wishing Dingding and Ning Weijin lasting happiness together. Subsequently, Chen Xun utilized Dingding's favorable revenue report to secure a partnership with a logistics company.
Both he and Wen Zixin conveyed their sincere gratitude for Dingding's crucial assistance, and Chen Xun realized the depth of Wen Zixin's genuine feelings for him. Dingding then met with Mu Yixun's team to refine her designs for a client who desired a "more eccentric" style. She quickly sketched a half-face cat mask, which was well-received.
Following this, Mu Yixun proposed acquiring the copyright for her design, explaining that releasing it under his name would garner greater popularity and commercial value. Dingding, having expected a joint authorship, protested. She was informed that she was still young and needed further experience, and that such arrangements were common in the industry. Mu Yixun's assistant underscored that opportunities often came through connections, reminding Dingding that without Mu Yixun's backing, she would remain "just a Taobao seller."
Struggling with the decision, Dingding called Ning Weijin, expressing her dilemma and asking for guidance. After being granted one more night to consider, Dingding ultimately refused Mu Yixun's offer to buy her copyright. Consequently, he terminated their collaboration, sending a concise message: "Cooperation is cancelled, take care." This left Dingding deeply distressed. Discovering Dingding's despair, Ning Weijin immediately went to comfort her, reassuring her that her inherent talent would allow her to succeed even without relying on anyone else.
He then suggested they take a day off to relax, which Dingding gladly accepted. The next day, after Dingding confirmed she was ready, Ning Weijin rushed to her, having realized he forgot his phone, keys, and wallet at home. He explained he ran to avoid being late and to prevent her from being called away again. Touched by his eagerness, Dingding declared she would cover all expenses for their date, which Ning Weijin found a little awkward.
As they strolled, Ning Weijin spotted an ice cream vendor and offered to buy some for Dingding. When she eagerly moved to choose a flavor, he gently pulled her back, saying it was "affordable," and then unexpectedly kissed her, causing her considerable embarrassment amid curious onlookers. Later, Dingding teasingly confronted him about whether he had deliberately orchestrated the moment for a kiss, to which he playfully admitted, "It seems to be true."
Their romantic date was abruptly interrupted when a colleague from the hospital, Ding Yang, called Dingding's phone to inform Ning Weijin of an emergency surgery requiring his immediate presence. Ning Weijin apologized for cutting their date short and swiftly departed. At the hospital, while preparing for surgery on a patient with multiple fractures and a ruptured breast implant, Ning Weijin encountered Shu Yiran.
She pointedly questioned if Zheng Dingding would be angry about the interrupted date and challenged him to prioritize between his patient and his girlfriend. Ning Weijin firmly stated there was "no comparability at all," reminding Shu Yiran of their shared medical profession. Unconvinced, Shu Yiran concluded that only his patients could truly divert his attention from Zheng Dingding.
A new doctor, Dr. Xiang, joined the plastic surgery hospital and quickly became popular among clients, greatly annoying Gao Ren, who grumbled that it was "like a celebrity meeting" for a new hire. In the gym, while Gao Ren was exercising, two women openly admired Dr. Xiang, calling him "Mr. McDreamy" for his mature demeanor and understanding of mainstream aesthetics.
Feeling competitive, Gao Ren tried to physically outdo Dr. Xiang and even mockingly suggested Dr. Xiang was better suited for a beauty salon due to his focus on aesthetic medicine. Dr. Xiang calmly defended aesthetic medicine as the modern trend, while Gao Ren reiterated his preference for natural beauty and never recommending unnecessary procedures. Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan continued her relentless pursuit of Gao Ren.
During a dance practice, Gao Ren, appearing distracted, abruptly left, citing a hospital emergency, much to Ning Weixuan's fury. On the day of a planned performance, she waited for him, repeatedly texting that she wouldn't leave until he arrived. He responded by turning off his phone, leaving her distraught. She later confided in Ning Weijin, crying about Gao Ren's cruelty and asking her brother to help find him.
Ning Weijin comforted her and stayed with her, though she insisted she wouldn't go home until Gao Ren showed up. Ning Weixuan expressed her confusion about Gao Ren's avoidance, lamenting that even her "clueless" brother knew how to be attentive to Dingding. Ning Weijin, in turn, warned her that "too much obsession will hurt yourself," a sentiment she challenged by comparing it to his own "obsession" with Dingding.
For Gao Ren's upcoming birthday, Ning Weixuan planned a surprise, deeming her usual celebration ideas uncreative. She even went to a salon to get a trendy "Seaweed Roll" haircut, believing it would make her appear more mature, a quality she thought Gao Ren admired. She insisted Gao Ren clear his schedule and arranged for him and Ning Weijin to attend a party.
Gao Ren later called Ning Weijin, asking him to invite Shu Yiran, convinced she would only come if Ning Weijin personally asked. Shu Yiran, initially happy to join, believing it would be just the three of them, became visibly disappointed when she learned Dingding would also be present. Dingding arrived early to help Ning Weixuan set up the party, noticing an injury on Ning Weixuan's hand.
Ning Weixuan revealed it was from making a handmade wool felt toy as a birthday gift for Gao Ren. When Gao Ren and the others finally arrived, he immediately criticized the elaborate balloon decorations as "too fancy" and jokingly compared them to "Children's Day." He then made a disparaging remark about Ning Weixuan's new haircut, likening it to a "QQ show."
Dingding intervened, explaining that Ning Weixuan had specially styled it for him, prompting Gao Ren to quickly backtrack and praise it. Shu Yiran, still annoyed by Dingding's presence, pointedly refused to sit next to Gao Ren. As Dingding played the song "Small Dimple," Shu Yiran and Gao Ren reminisced about a college singing competition where Shu Yiran and Ning Weijin performed that song and won first place. Gao Ren humorously claimed he could have won first place with Shu Yiran if they had sung together.
Episode 26 Recap
In a private room, everyone gathered to celebrate Gao Ren's birthday. Shu Yiran reminisced about her college days when she and Ning Weijin sang "Dimples" together for a campus singing competition, winning first prize. Gao Ren, with a hint of jealousy, wished he could have sung with her back then. Shu Yiran then asked for "Dimples" to be played, seemingly hoping to sing it with Ning Weijin again.
Ning Weixuan, however, interjected, noting that her brother was forced into that duet. Ning Weijin then gracefully suggested that since it was Gao Ren's birthday, Gao Ren and Shu Yiran should sing "Dimples" to fulfill Gao Ren's past regret. He added that he personally dislikes singing and would only sing with Dingding in the future, much to Ning Weixuan's amusement and Shu Yiran's chagrin. Gao Ren and Shu Yiran then began singing the song.
Meanwhile, at Chengpin, Wen Zixin was working late when an old friend called. Her friend praised Chengpin's successful PR event and offered Wen Zixin an audition for a supporting role in a TV series, scheduled for Friday in Beijing. Wen Zixin hesitated, citing her busy schedule, but her friend insisted, warning that she might need a career change if she couldn't make it. Wen Zixin promised to try her best.
Soon after, Chen Xun returned from an unsuccessful meeting and offered her the position of Vice Manager at Chengpin. Wen Zixin playfully mentioned wanting to return to acting, to which Chen Xun casually remarked that he hadn't seen her take any roles, which saddened her slightly. They discussed their scheduled Friday flight to Inner Mongolia to meet with Mr. Liu. Chen Xun confirmed that rescheduling was difficult, so Wen Zixin, concealing her dilemma, assured him she was available.
She then sent a WeChat message to her friend, declining the audition. However, Chen Xun later informed her the trip to Inner Mongolia was canceled. Seeing her frustration, but misinterpreting it as work-related fatigue, he invited her to a resort for the weekend instead. Back at the party, as cake was served, Dingding cut a piece for Ning Weijin. Shu Yiran quickly pointed out Ning Weijin's mango allergy, implicitly criticizing Dingding for her oversight.
Ning Weijin brushed it off, stating he simply wouldn't eat the mango. He then explained to Dingding that his upcoming work on a new research topic would make him very busy in the coming months, limiting his time with her, which Dingding understood. Ning Weixuan, seizing the moment, turned to Shu Yiran and, while seemingly talking to Dingding, advised Shu Yiran to keep a close watch on Ning Weijin at the hospital.
She warned against "secret admirers" exploiting work opportunities to disrupt his relationship with Dingding. Shu Yiran, clearly understanding Ning Weixuan's veiled taunt, announced she felt unwell and abruptly left the room. Outside, Gao Ren caught up to Shu Yiran, apologizing for Ning Weixuan's immaturity. Shu Yiran retorted sarcastically, implying that Gao Ren and Ning Weixuan were well-suited, especially after she was his dance partner.
Gao Ren quickly clarified that he had not attended the dance event, explaining that his participation was solely for Shu Yiran, and without her, it held no meaning. Shu Yiran remained unimpressed and walked away. As Gao Ren turned back, he saw a tearful Ning Weixuan, who had overheard their entire exchange. She confronted Gao Ren, demanding to know if he could ever like her.
When he remained silent, she tearfully accepted his unspoken answer, vowed never to bother him again, handed him a handmade birthday gift, and left. Ning Weijin and Dingding then emerged, and Ning Weijin sternly warned Gao Ren to stay away from Ning Weixuan. Gao Ren, feeling bewildered, lamented that everyone was blaming him. Later that evening, Ning Weixuan, deeply distraught, went to a bar alone and drank heavily.
When some young men started harassing her, Dr. Xiang unexpectedly intervened, fighting them off. He then recognized Ning Weixuan, and she, still in her drunken state, launched into a furious tirade against Gao Ren. Dr. Xiang, revealing he worked at the same hospital and also found Gao Ren annoying, agreed with her. Finding common ground, they started dancing together. As Ning Weixuan stumbled out of the bar, Ning Weijin arrived to pick up his intoxicated sister.
Ning Weixuan introduced Dr. Xiang, thanking him for defending her. Dr. Xiang introduced himself as Xiang Qian, Gao Ren's colleague, to Ning Weijin before leaving. The next morning, Ning Weixuan awoke to find Ning Weijin had prepared lunch for her. She apologized for her behavior, admitting she was wrong to go to the bar alone.
Ning Weijin gently advised her to use this time to calmly reflect on her path forward, whether to pursue her feelings for Gao Ren or let them go. He also suggested she change her hairstyle back, as it didn't suit her. Later, driven by jealousy, Shu Yiran went to the gym to vent her frustrations.
Gao Ren found her there and told her she had changed from the confident and kind person she once was into someone who was irritable and manipulative. He bluntly advised her to give up on Ning Weijin, but she stubbornly refused, declaring that Ning Weijin was hers. She warned Gao Ren that if he wouldn't help her, they were no longer friends. Gao Ren sadly stated he couldn't help her, and she stormed off.
At the hospital, Shu Yiran and Ning Weijin discussed the difficult case of Wang Minying, a patient who was five months pregnant with stage-three gestational breast cancer. Shu Yiran was desperate to find a way to save both the mother and the baby, but Ning Weijin initially stated that doctors were not gods. Later, as Dingding arrived at the hospital, Shu Yiran brought up the case again, arguing with Ning Weijin's view that they should prioritize saving the mother.
To prove her point, Shu Yiran asked Dingding for her opinion. Dingding suggested that they should respect the patient's wishes and strive for a solution that could save both, a view with which Ning Weijin smiled and agreed. Motivated, Ning Weijin buried himself in research and discovered a paper by Dr. Dana from the Royal Academy of Medicine, USA, on a treatment using a classical chemotherapy drug that could protect both mother and fetus.
He proposed consulting Dr. Dana's student, Dr. Zhou Chen at Yimin Hospital, to finalize their plan. Shu Yiran was thrilled. Ning Weijin assigned Shu Yiran the task of communicating the risks to the family, while he focused on the operation. After meeting with Dr. Zhou Chen, they proceeded with the complex surgery on Wang Minying, which was successful. However, post-operative recovery remained a concern. Exhausted, Ning Weijin fell asleep in the operating room's dressing room.
Dingding arrived at the hospital with homemade soup for him. Miao Miaomiao, Ning Weijin's assistant, led Dingding into the aseptic area. Shu Yiran intercepted them, sternly reprimanding Miaomiao for breaching protocol and scolding Dingding for entering an unauthorized area. Ning Weijin, awakened by the commotion, emerged. Shu Yiran continued her criticism, now directed at Ning Weijin, for not ensuring his girlfriend adhered to hospital rules.
Ning Weijin calmly asked a disheartened Dingding to wait outside and instructed Miaomiao to inform him directly of her visits in the future. After Ning Weijin changed, he and Shu Yiran exited the operating room. Shu Yiran linked her arm through his, proposing they co-author a paper on the case and invited him to dinner. Ning Weijin gently removed her arm, explaining he was going to eat the soup Dingding had prepared.
Casting a knowing glance at Dingding, Shu Yiran casually remarked that since she and Weijin saw each other every day, one evening wouldn't make a difference, which hurt Dingding deeply. Later, as they ate, Ning Weijin noticed Dingding's quiet demeanor and asked what was wrong. Dingding hesitantly inquired about his relationship with Shu Yiran. He explained they often partnered in college but less so now, and playfully accused her of jealousy.
Confiding in Xiaofeng, Dingding expressed her growing unease with Shu Yiran. Xiaofeng confirmed Shu Yiran's possessive feelings, likening her behavior to an animal "protecting its prey," and advised Dingding to counter this by being an even more thoughtful girlfriend. Separately, Ning Weijin also sought out Xiaofeng, who advised him to avoid discussing work matters with Shu Yiran in front of Dingding, as girlfriends disliked being ignored by their partners.
Episode 27 Recap
Recently, Gao Ren found himself uncharacteristically unsettled by Ning Weixuan's absence from the hospital. He had previously found her constant presence annoying, but now that she was no longer pursuing him, he felt unaccustomed to the quiet. This change came after an emotional evening at his birthday celebration, where Ning Weixuan had directly asked him if he would ever love her. When he offered no reply, she declared that she would stop badgering him.
Ning Weijin attempted to arrange a meal with Dingding, presenting her with a bouquet of flowers. Dingding was delighted, but their plans were quickly interrupted when Shu Yiran called Ning Weijin with urgent news: Wang Minying was experiencing postoperative haemorrhagic complications. Ning Weijin immediately informed Dingding that he had a patient emergency. Remembering Xiao Feng’s earlier advice to be considerate and understanding, Dingding, though disappointed, urged Ning Weijin to return to the hospital.
Ning Weijin promised to make it up to her. Upon his arrival at the hospital, Shu Yiran explained that Wang Minying’s wound had split due to coughing, but the situation was now under control. As Wang Minying’s attending doctor, Ning Weijin was advised by Shu Yiran to dedicate his attention to her recovery, given the significant effort involved in saving her life.
Meanwhile, Yun Sheng discovered that Mu Yixun was about to launch a new line of dolls whose designs were strikingly similar to Dingding’s "dirty cat" character. Dingding, having previously refused to sell her design to him, was shocked and immediately called Mu Yixun. He coolly asserted that the designs were his original work, claiming they were similar to her "dirty cat" but predated it.
When Dingding questioned the "cat mask" on the doll, he corrected her, stating it was a fox mask, and abruptly ended the call, citing a meeting. Furious, Dingding went to Mu Yixun's studio to confront him. Mu Yixun reiterated that the design was his, produced by his studio, and he was free to use it as he wished. He challenged Dingding for proof of ownership, asserting she had no contract.
He then defensively brought up her past "plagiarism" controversy, claiming he had only issued a public clarification on Weibo because she had "begged" him and he had "appreciated" her work. Mu Yixun warned that her accusations were slander and threatened to sue her for libel if she continued, hinting at another public scandal. Feeling helpless and enraged, Dingding left, calling him shameless, while Mu Yixun dismissed her as a nobody.
Dingding tried to call Ning Weijin to tell him what happened, but he was deep in discussion with Shu Yiran about a patient whose cancer had metastasized. When Ning Weijin returned her call, Shu Yiran deliberately interrupted, raising a point about a research paper related to primary tumors. Despite Ning Weijin's attempts to speak with Dingding, Shu Yiran continued to monopolize the conversation. A nurse then called Ning Weijin away to another patient.
Sensing his overwhelming busyness, Dingding chose not to burden him with her problem, simply saying "nothing" and adding, "I miss you," before hanging up. Instead, she called Xiao Feng. Dingding vented her frustration to Xiao Feng, realizing that Mu Yixun’s offer to collaborate had been a "conspiracy" from the start. She recounted how Mu Yixun had claimed that all designs created within his studio were considered "collective creativity" and thus part of the studio’s collective work, precluding individual contracts.
Xiao Feng warned her about Mu Yixun's powerful fan base and the potential damage to her reputation if she tried to expose him. Despite the difficulty of proving intellectual property theft, Dingding decided she wouldn't back down. She theorized that Mu Yixun must have deceived others before and planned to seek out past collaborators to collectively expose his true nature.
She decided not to involve Ning Weijin, acknowledging his demanding schedule with a critically ill patient, and committed to resolving the issue herself. Xiao Feng, while supporting her, teased her about becoming a "doctor's wife" and warned that such challenges would only intensify in a marriage. At the hospital, the director convened a meeting, introducing a new actress that a major shareholder wished to promote. He tasked Gao Ren and Dr. Xiang with enhancing her appearance to ensure instant stardom.
A heated debate ensued between Gao Ren, who advocated for subtle adjustments based on natural beauty, and Dr. Xiang, who insisted on more significant changes to align with "mass aesthetic" trends. Dr. Xiang's commercially driven arguments won over the room, and the director appointed him as the lead surgeon, with Gao Ren instructed to assist. Afterward, Dr. Xiang subtly mocked Gao Ren's "Zen-like" approach to surgery, suggesting it would eventually lead to financial ruin.
He then brought up Ning Weixuan, describing her as "cute." Gao Ren, visibly rattled, immediately launched into a tirade, listing all of Ning Weixuan's supposed flaws: she was incompetent, messy, lacked feminine charm, had an awful figure, and a terrible temper. He vehemently urged Dr. Xiang not to develop an interest in her. Dr. Xiang, however, found Gao Ren's denial amusing and, to Gao Ren's chagrin, seemed only more assured in his interest.
Later, Dr. Xiang went to Ning Weixuan's cafe, arriving as she was closing. She urged him to leave and return another day, reminding him they had once "drank and danced together." Dr. Xiang, undeterred, observed her cafe, noting that despite having many cats, she did not serve Kopi Luwak. He explained that true coffee connoisseurs, particularly in professional competitions, chose high-quality Gesha beans over Kopi Luwak, which he dismissed as a mere marketing gimmick.
Ning Weixuan wholeheartedly agreed, finding common ground in their shared discerning taste for coffee. Adhering to her "no overtime" rule, they decided to move their conversation to another venue. They continued their conversation at a bar, where Dr. Xiang further impressed Ning Weixuan by revealing his diverse talents, including certifications as a pet trainer, an outdoor leader, and a sommelier.
He explained that his varied pursuits stemmed from a desire to "save the world," from those seeking beauty through plastic surgery to those overwhelmed by their pets. Ning Weixuan joked that her brother would call him "unreliable and not focused on his main job," but she was clearly intrigued by his hidden skills. As Gao Ren arrived at the bar, seeking to unwind, he spotted Ning Weixuan and Dr. Xiang.
Approaching them, he tried to greet them, but Ning Weixuan, to his dismay, feigned ignorance, calling him a stranger and accusing him of being rude for interrupting. Dr. Xiang courteously invited Gao Ren to join them, but Ning Weixuan firmly stated she would not drink with someone she didn't know. Gao Ren, trying to assert his authority, asked if her brother knew she was out with a stranger. Ning Weixuan retorted that it was none of his business.
As he began to leave, defeated, Gao Ren turned to Dr. Xiang and, within Ning Weixuan's earshot, claimed, "I'm her brother's friend. That makes her my little sister." He warned Dr. Xiang that he would be watching him. Ning Weixuan immediately rejected this, asserting her independence from both her brother and Gao Ren. That night, Dingding visited Ning Weijin at the hospital, finding him still engrossed in discussing a project with Shu Yiran.
Feeling like an outsider and unable to contribute to their conversation, Dingding quietly left. Back home, she sent a message to Ning Weijin, silently questioning his affection. Meanwhile, a weary Ning Weijin replied to her previous message, informing her he had just gotten home and apologizing for ignoring her earlier. He struggled to type another message, explaining his exhaustion, but fell asleep before it could be sent.
The next morning, Ning Weijin discovered the unsent message and immediately sent an apology, explaining his fatigue. Dingding, though she had waited up for his reply and was hurt, drafted a reply expressing her feelings but ultimately deleted it, choosing instead to send a message of understanding, telling him to rest well. Elsewhere, Wen Zixin, after accompanying Chen Xun to a work dinner, became heavily intoxicated.
Chen Xun brought her home, and as he was caring for her, her agent called. Chen Xun answered, and the agent directly confronted him, expressing his concern that Wen Zixin was sacrificing her career by tying herself to Chen Xun and acting as his assistant.
The agent revealed that a director, whose project Wen Zixin had previously declined for Chen Xun, was offering her another audition this Sunday and urged Chen Xun to relay the message, imploring her not to disappoint herself or him. After the call, Chen Xun told a groggy Wen Zixin that it was a wrong number and then deleted the call record from his phone. Back at the hospital, Gao Ren and Dr. Xiang crossed paths.
Dr. Xiang apologized for assuming Gao Ren and Ning Weixuan were friends the night before. Gao Ren, still upset, demanded to know how Dr. Xiang knew Ning Weixuan. Dr. Xiang explained he had noticed her when she visited the hospital seeking Gao Ren, and more recently, he had helped her when she was harassed by some young men at a bar a few days prior. Gao Ren was surprised to hear about the harassment.
Dr. Xiang then pointed out how nice Ning Weixuan's hair looked that day, making Gao Ren defensively backtrack and admit it looked good after all. Dr. Xiang suggested their repeated encounters might be "fate" and, when pressed by Gao Ren, admitted his interest in her. Gao Ren vehemently objected, declaring himself her "big brother" and forbidding Dr. Xiang from pursuing her. Dr. Xiang countered that Ning Weijin, her actual brother, had no objections, questioning Gao Ren's right to interfere.
Gao Ren stubbornly insisted Dr. Xiang stay away from her. Dr. Xiang then asked if Gao Ren liked her himself, to which Gao Ren denied. Dr. Xiang then logically concluded that if Gao Ren didn't like her, he had no reason to stop him. Gao Ren, frustrated, still tried to physically block him, muttering that Ning Weixuan was a "stupid girl" for catching Dr. Xiang's attention.
Episode 28 Recap
Gao Ren felt a sense of unease when Ning Weixuan stopped bothering him. He considered sending her a message, wondering about her current activities and suggesting dinner, but decided against it, fearing further humiliation. He then sent Ning Weixuan a WeChat message, warning her about a "wolf" (Dr. Xiang) pursuing her and advising her not to be naive. Ning Weixuan's cold reply indicated that it was "too late" for him to care.
Gao Ren noted her indifferent response and resigned himself, realizing that Dr. Xiang was right and he had no right to criticize Ning Weixuan. Dingding meticulously reviewed Mu Yixun's body of work, identifying numerous pieces with distinct styles, particularly prevalent in the past two years, leading her to conclude that these were likely plagiarized from multiple sources. She recalled an old industry post accusing Mu Yixun of plagiarizing even student works, which had been dismissed at the time.
Xiao Feng suggested that the author of that post was a crucial witness. Dingding successfully located the old post. Xiao Feng then contacted friends, providing them with the post's address, and tasked them with tracking down the original author. Simultaneously, he asked another friend to investigate a decade-old international design award in Japan, which Mu Yixun claimed to have won, as domestic information was scarce. Xiao Feng expressed confidence that they would soon expose Mu Yixun's deceit.
Gao Ren, feeling dejected, sought out Ning Weijin, complaining about Ning Weixuan's frequent outings to bars with Dr. Xiang. Ning Weijin, however, was unconcerned, stating that Ning Weixuan was an adult capable of making her own decisions. Gao Ren insisted that Dr. Xiang was not a good influence, describing him as a cunning man skilled in sweet words who easily charmed young women, pointing out how he had all the nurses "enchanted."
Ning Weijin playfully accused Gao Ren of being jealous, which Gao Ren vehemently denied, claiming his only concern was Ning Weixuan's well-being. Ning Weijin maintained that if Dr. Xiang could help Ning Weixuan recover from her heartbreak, it would be beneficial for her. He trusted Ning Weixuan's judgment, believing she might be passionate in love but never reckless.
He also suggested that this new relationship might help Ning Weixuan finally let go of her long-standing obsession with Gao Ren, and urged Gao Ren to do the same. The author of the old post revealed to Xiao Feng that he had previously worked under Mu Yixun and had exposed his plagiarism, only to be suppressed.
He also knew several other artists plagiarized by Mu Yixun, suggesting they unite for a joint public exposure, providing their original creative manuscripts as proof. While Dingding worried about potential counter-accusations, Xiao Feng received confirmation regarding the Japanese design award: Mu Yixun had only been nominated, not actually won. He had capitalized on the nascent internet at the time to falsely claim victory upon returning home, boosting his fame.
With both visual and textual evidence of this deception, Xiao Feng decided it was time to make the issue widely known. He mobilized his network of friends to amplify their voices and prevent Mu Yixun's ardent, unthinking fans from drowning out the truth. The internet became a hotbed of discussions surrounding Mu Yixun's plagiarism, with many posts trending.
His assistant informed him of the widespread criticism, noting that while his fans were arguing in his defense, the opposing voices were growing louder. Mu Yixun, initially dismissive of the "brainless" netizens, decided to have the exposing posts deleted, confident that Dingding's efforts were merely a minor inconvenience. However, a fresh wave of posts quickly emerged, revealing that his alleged international award from a decade prior was a fabrication, substantiated with both images and text.
This revelation rapidly spread across Weibo, with many influential accounts reposting the news and accusing him of infringement. Enraged but recognizing the severity of the situation, Mu Yixun instructed his assistant to adopt a "cold processing" strategy, choosing to remain silent for the time being. Three days passed with Mu Yixun remaining silent on the plagiarism allegations. Dingding expressed her confusion to Xiao Feng, wondering how a once-talented artist could become so driven by materialism, abandoning his original creative spirit.
Xiao Feng offered a cynical explanation, suggesting that once individuals experience the "peak," they will do anything to avoid returning to the "trough," even if it means "treading others underfoot." He encouraged Dingding to look forward to Mu Yixun's downfall and reminded her to pursue compensation, then joked that she should comfort Ning Weijin, who had been busy, before "someone else" did it for her. Dingding, recalling Ning Weijin's busy schedule, decided to make him some nourishing soup.
Meanwhile, on Taobao, Dingding's regular customer, "Emperor," who also worked in design, messaged her. Emperor had been following her intellectual property defense battle online, praising her excellent designs and admirable character, and expressed a strong desire to collaborate with her in the future. Dingding, curious, asked about Emperor's specific design field, but Emperor remained enigmatic, promising she would know when they collaborated. Carrying the nourishing soup for Ning Weijin, Dingding arrived at the hospital.
On her way, she overheard nurses gossiping about Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran spending nearly all their time together, outside of surgeries, and how well-matched they seemed due to Shu Yiran's beauty, intelligence, and professional capabilities. Feeling a pang of sadness, Dingding then arrived at Ning Weijin's office to find Shu Yiran excitedly hugging him.
Ning Weijin quickly disengaged upon seeing Dingding, explaining that Shu Yiran was celebrating a breakthrough in their research—a senior fellow-apprentice had just replied with vital clinical information. Shu Yiran interjected, feigning forgetfulness, and mentioned they used to hug often in college, implying it was a habit she momentarily forgot. Ning Weijin quickly reassured Dingding not to overthink things and suggested they go to the cafeteria to eat the soup she brought.
Shu Yiran immediately tried to divert him by mentioning the new research message, but Ning Weijin politely insisted he would check it after their meal, refusing to ignore Dingding. Dingding, adopting a magnanimous air, told Ning Weijin to prioritize his work and proceeded to publicly kiss him goodbye. Ning Weijin embraced her tightly, a scene that left Shu Yiran visibly upset.
Before leaving, Dingding noticed Ning Weijin's tie was dirty and offered to wash it for him, but he declined, saying he would wash it himself later. During a breast augmentation surgery, Gao Ren found himself profoundly distracted, his mind replaying Ning Weijin's words about Ning Weixuan and Dr. Xiang. Despite completing the procedure, the patient's breast soon began to leak yellow fluid. A frantic examination revealed pus at the incision site.
Strangely, the patient felt no pain or itching, a clear sign of nerve damage—a fundamental error. The chief doctor sternly reprimanded Gao Ren for his severe lapse in judgment. Gao Ren immediately suggested removing the prosthesis, but the chief insisted on a comprehensive approach, prioritizing anti-inflammatory treatment before any further surgery, as the cause of the complication was not yet definitively linked to the prosthesis. Gao Ren reluctantly agreed to follow the chief's instructions.
Dingding's planned hotpot dinner with Xiao Feng to celebrate their victory was derailed when he was called away by his "girl." Left to dine alone, she received a cat-faced doll from the waitress for companionship. She then reached out to Ning Weixuan to join, but Ning Weixuan declined, already having plans with Dr. Xiang. Contemplating calling Ning Weijin, Dingding ultimately decided against it, reasoning that he was likely too busy.
After her solitary dinner, Dingding went shopping and bought a new tie for Ning Weijin, remembering his old one was dirty. Back at the hospital, Ning Weijin, clearly exhausted, administered eye drops and leaned back with his eyes closed to rest. Shu Yiran, who was nearby, approached him and attempted to kiss him. However, Ding Yang and Miaomiao unexpectedly re-entered the office, catching Shu Yiran mid-act.
She quickly retreated to her seat, but the two interns, stunned, stood frozen at the doorway, having witnessed her attempt. After Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran left for the library, Ding Yang and Miaomiao began to openly discuss the near-kiss incident. Dingding, still in the vicinity, overheard their conversation and confronted them. The interns nervously concocted a story about another "Professor Liu's wife" and a surprise birthday party to cover their tracks.
Dingding, still suspicious, pressed them about Ning Weijin's whereabouts, learning that he and Shu Yiran had just left for the library and were likely in the parking lot. Ignoring Miaomiao's frantic warnings not to pursue them, Dingding rushed to the parking lot. There, she found Shu Yiran offering Ning Weijin a new tie, insisting he change into it immediately due to the many acquaintances they might encounter at school.
As Ning Weijin reluctantly tried to change the tie, Shu Yiran actively intervened to assist him, a sight Dingding witnessed. Enraged, Dingding called out Ning Weijin's name before turning and leaving abruptly, despite Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran's attempts to stop her and explain.
Episode 29 Recap
Dingding was upset when she saw Shu Yiran helping Ning Weijin change his tie. Shu Yiran tried to explain that Ning Weijin's tie had been dirty for days and he hadn't had time to change it, so she helped him with a new one. However, Dingding angrily retorted that it was unnecessary for Shu Yiran to do so. Dingding then threw the tie she had bought for Ning Weijin at his feet and stormed off, getting into a taxi.
Ning Weijin threw Shu Yiran's tie back to her and immediately pursued Dingding, but couldn't catch her. He decided to wait at her apartment building. Meanwhile, after Gao Ren performed an emergency procedure on Yu Jiali's breast, she still needed a few days of observation for a post-operative infection. Yu Jiali pressed Gao Ren for a definitive recovery timeline, which he struggled to provide, stating that it varied for individuals.
A nurse intervened, fabricating a patient emergency to draw Gao Ren away. He later learned that a new client, who had been waiting to sign a contract, overheard the conversation and, concerned about his medical skills, left without signing. The next morning, Yu Jiali was distressed and crying, demanding the gauze be removed to check for pus, which could risk re-infection. Gao Ren reluctantly agreed to send her to the examination room, where she cried out about her breast.
Wen Zixin confronted Chen Xun, demanding to know why he hadn't told her about an audition opportunity. Her agent had informed her that she had already contacted him about it. Chen Xun admitted he deliberately kept it from her, fearing she would leave him. He explained that after Dingding left him, his world became chaotic, and Wen Zixin brought back his balance, making him terrified of losing her again.
He also recalled her previous statement about not wanting to act anymore. Wen Zixin was furious, accusing him of being selfish and deceitful. She told him that she had already turned down an opportunity for him once and would have done so again if he had simply told her. She urged him to learn to be less self-centered. Heartbroken, Wen Zixin left the company.
Dingding, meanwhile, had gone out drinking and singing with Xiao Feng, feeling as heartbroken as if she had suffered a breakup. Xiao Feng tried to tell her it was just a tie, but Dingding insisted that Ning Weijin should have refused Shu Yiran's gesture. Xiao Feng eventually brought a drunken Dingding back to her apartment, handing her over to Ning Weijin who had been waiting outside her door, calling her phone which was off.
After settling Dingding, Ning Weijin watched over her as she sleep-talked, repeatedly telling him not to wear Shu Yiran's tie. Ning Weijin finally realized the seriousness of the situation. Later that night, when Dingding vomited, Ning Weijin, unsure how to help, called Ning Weixuan to assist with changing her clothes. The next morning, Dingding woke up to find a loving note from Ning Weijin and a prepared breakfast.
In the note, he confessed he had called Ning Weixuan for help when she was sick and declared that all future tie purchases would be entirely her responsibility. Though Dingding jokingly dismissed his gesture, she was touched and felt the sweetness of their love return. Shortly after, Xiao Feng called Dingding, urging her to check Mu Yixun's Weibo.
Dingding discovered that Mu Yixun had won an award for "his" "dirty cat" design and was publicly discrediting her, claiming she was a recently fired studio employee seeking revenge. He told the media that his inspiration for "dirty cat" came from a stray cat he adopted and that he always believed in truth prevailing, thus rarely explaining things, but this was a "premeditated smear campaign." Furious, Dingding declared she would contact others to fight Mu Yixun to the very end.
At the cafe, a young man in a white shirt, who had been listening, stood up in support of her. This man was Baicha, Dingding's idol, whose artworks adorned the cafe. Dingding, overwhelmed with excitement, questioned if he was truly Baicha, as he didn't quite match the cartoon image she knew. Baicha confirmed his identity, appreciating her "Little scarf" designs and expressing a desire to collaborate.
He promised to send her a contract soon and revealed he was already gathering evidence of Mu Yixun's plagiarism, determined to bring him down. As Baicha was leaving, he noticed the "Little scarf" backrests in the cafe. Dingding offered him one, but he declined, saying he already had one at home. She then realized that Baicha was the same "Emperor" she had previously chatted with on Taobao about collaboration.
Feeling immensely guilty, Gao Ren wished to apologize to Yu Jiali in person, but she refused to see him. Dr. Xiang attempted to convey Gao Ren's apology to her, but Yu Jiali reacted angrily, making Gao Ren even more despondent. Yu Jiali's partial breast tissue had become necrotic, necessitating further surgery to remove the affected areas. Following this, Yu Jiali's mother was furious, scolding both Gao Ren and the director, demanding five million yuan in compensation and threatening legal action.
Gao Ren took full responsibility for the accident, asserting it was his fault alone and unrelated to the hospital. He offered two million yuan, hoping to avoid further complications for the hospital. Yu Jiali's mother, acknowledging their sincere apology, agreed to discuss the offer with her daughter. The director explained to Gao Ren that while the hospital would contribute a small portion, the majority of the compensation would have to come from him.
The hospital also offered free chest reconstruction surgery for Yu Jiali. Gao Ren, deeply affected and feeling like a "loser" in every aspect, decided to sell his house and car to raise the two million yuan compensation. The hospital director then relieved Gao Ren of his current cases and sent him on leave, tasking Dr. Xiang with Yu Jiali's case, including a potential chest reconstruction. An emotionally distressed Gao Ren left the hospital.
Ning Weixuan, having received a message from Dr. Xiang suggesting she check on Gao Ren, called Ning Weijin to inform him about Gao Ren's situation, revealing he hadn't told anyone about selling his house. Ning Weixuan invited Gao Ren to her cafe for coffee. During their conversation, Gao Ren vaguely mentioned a "slight problem" with the operation.
When Ning Weixuan revealed that Dr. Xiang had asked her to check on him, Gao Ren became angry, perceiving it as pity, and abruptly left the cafe, even declining a scone she offered. Gao Ren, having signed a contract with a real estate agent to sell his house, then found himself at a bar, drinking heavily to drown his sorrows. Ning Weijin found Gao Ren at the bar.
Gao Ren acknowledged he was selling his house and car to raise the money, refusing Ning Weijin's offer of financial help or a place to stay. He explained that he didn't want his friends involved and was concerned about Ning Weixuan's comfort if he stayed with Ning Weijin. Gao Ren also explicitly asked Ning Weijin not to tell Shu Yiran about his troubles, fearing her worry.
The next morning, Ning Weixuan further updated Ning Weijin on the extent of Mu Yixun's plagiarism against Dingding, including stealing her copyright, creating merchandise, and humiliating her. She also implicitly confirmed that she had moved on from Gao Ren, seeing him now only as her brother's friend. She criticized Ning Weijin for being too busy and entangled with Shu Yiran to notice Dingding's struggles. Realizing his negligence, Ning Weijin went to Dingding to apologize. Dingding initially scoffed at a mere WeChat apology, prompting Ning Weijin to follow up with a face-to-face apology, stating it was "double sincerity."
Episode 30 Recap
Ning Weijin sent Zheng Dingding a WeChat message to apologize, but Dingding felt it lacked sincerity. Moments later, a knock at the door revealed Ning Weijin holding a bouquet of flowers, which Dingding conceded was "double sincerity." Wearing the tie Dingding had given him, Ning Weijin told her that from now on, whether it was a tie or a scarf, he only wanted her to put it on for him.
Dingding accepted his apology, admitting she had been too impulsive that day and had lost her composure. Ning Weijin, filled with remorse, embraced her tightly. He expressed regret that she had been wronged recently and that he, as her boyfriend, was incompetent for not knowing about the major incident with Mu Yixun sooner. Dingding clarified that she hadn't told him because she feared he was too busy, not because she was angry.
She added that she had initially thought of asking for his help, but since he was constantly occupied, she didn't get the chance. She found that solving problems on her own was empowering and joked that she might not need to bother him in the future. Ning Weijin playfully insisted she must always turn to him for help.
Dingding, with a hint of jealousy, then accused him of constantly being intimate with “Dr. Shu,” leaving her no opportunity to share her burdens. Just as Ning Weijin was about to explain, Shu Yiran called. Knowing she was asking him to join her at the library to research literature, Ning Weijin didn't answer. However, Dingding, wanting to accompany him, urged him to go.
On their way, Ning Weijin reminisced about his university days, sharing how he used to claim a quiet corner in the library just to sleep, as the dorms were too noisy. At the library, Shu Yiran approached with two coffees, feigning surprise that Dingding was there and apologizing for not buying her one.
She naturally offered a cup to Ning Weijin, but Dingding quickly produced a cup of chrysanthemum medlar tea she had brewed for him, explaining he had been working hard. Shu Yiran then reluctantly offered the coffee to Dingding, who accepted it. Shu Yiran directed Ning Weijin to the spot she had reserved, but he instead led Dingding to another table. Shu Yiran, with no other choice, gathered her materials and followed them.
While Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran focused on their research, Dingding secretly took a photo of Ning Weijin, messaging him to say he looked most handsome when serious. Ning Weijin immediately replied that he looked best when looking at her. Their open display of affection irritated Shu Yiran, who coughed loudly to get Ning Weijin's attention. Ignoring her, Ning Weijin took Dingding to a bookshelf to find a book, where he stole a kiss.
Dingding softly chided him for being too daring in public, unaware that Shu Yiran, hiding behind the bookshelf, had witnessed the entire exchange, glaring in anger. Meanwhile, Gao Ren returned to the hospital to collect some documents. Dr. Xiang informed him that after examining Yu Jiali and discussing her medical history, it was revealed she had a previous breast augmentation in an unregulated clinic using inferior materials.
Dr. Xiang concluded that Gao Ren wasn't entirely to blame for the recent accident. However, Gao Ren insisted on taking full responsibility, stating that the incident occurred on his operating table and was due to his insufficient preparatory work. Dr. Xiang expressed admiration for Gao Ren's strong sense of responsibility. As Gao Ren was leaving, Dr. Xiang questioned him about Ning Weixuan.
Gao Ren warned Dr. Xiang that if he wasn't serious about Ning Weixuan, he should keep his distance to avoid hurting her, especially as a friend of her brother. Dr. Xiang replied that Ning Weixuan wasn't ready for a new relationship and he considered her a friend, but pointedly remarked that Gao Ren had caused Ning Weixuan more pain than he ever could. Frustrated by Ning Weijin and Dingding's overt affection, Shu Yiran left the library early.
Ning Weijin and Dingding soon followed, but Ning Weijin realized he had forgotten something and went back inside. Dingding waited outside, overhearing Shu Yiran on the phone with Gao Ren. Gao Ren advised Shu Yiran to keep her distance from Ning Weijin, reminding her that he already had a girlfriend. Shu Yiran vehemently refused to give up, accusing Gao Ren of siding with Zheng Dingding.
She declared she would make things clear to Ning Weijin and wouldn't involve Gao Ren in her affairs with Ning Weijin anymore. Later, Ning Weijin took Dingding to a restaurant near their university, a place they often frequented in the past. The woman boss, who recognized Ning Weijin, asked if he had married "that beautiful girl" he used to come with, assuming she was Shu Yiran. Ning Weijin, embarrassed, introduced Dingding as his fiancée.
The woman boss quickly apologized and offered them a complimentary, delicious meal, including their famous duck oil pancakes. Dingding asked Ning Weijin if he knew Shu Yiran liked him. Ning Weijin clarified that his relationship with Shu Yiran wasn't as close as she imagined; it was Gao Ren who always brought her along when they hung out. He reaffirmed that Dingding was the only one in his heart.
Feeling friendless after an argument with Shu Yiran and being coldly received by Ning Weixuan, Gao Ren called Ning Weijin to join him for a barbecue. Gao Ren admitted he felt like a failure, with his career, relationships, and life in general falling apart. Ning Weijin reassured him that he was just going through a tough patch and things would improve. Ning Weijin then pressed Gao Ren about his surgical error, noting it was unlike his usual standard.
Gao Ren confessed he had been distracted during the operation, thinking of "someone." Ning Weijin, assuming he meant Shu Yiran, suggested Gao Ren confess his feelings to her. Gao Ren, however, believed Shu Yiran would reject him anyway. Ning Weijin argued that if he already knew the outcome, he should end it decisively rather than clinging to false hope. Gao Ren agreed, observing that Ning Weijin's advice had changed since he started dating.
Ning Weijin then returned home and suggested Ning Weixuan check on Gao Ren. Ning Weixuan, however, was still upset, recalling Gao Ren’s past affection for Shu Yiran, which ignited her anger. Plagued by nightmares of Yu Jiali transforming into Ning Weixuan on the operating table, Gao Ren woke up in a cold sweat. He called an old client, Lisa, to check on her recovery, and she suggested they meet for a drink.
Gao Ren, assuming she was also having complications, immediately left to meet her. That night, Ning Weixuan and Dr. Xiang were at a bar when Ning Weixuan spotted Gao Ren and Lisa looking cozy. Annoyed that Gao Ren, despite his reported low spirits, seemed quite cheerful, Ning Weixuan directly squeezed herself between them. Fueled by alcohol, she confronted Gao Ren, expressing her heartbreak.
She thought their ballroom dancing was a unique memory but realized she was merely a substitute for Shu Yiran in his life. She declared she had endured her love for him for years and had worked hard for her ideals, but now she was ready to step aside so he could be with the person he truly loved, urging him to be brave and tell Shu Yiran how he felt. She then drank herself into a stupor.
Gao Ren and Dr. Xiang argued over who should take her home, with Dr. Xiang urging Gao Ren to seriously reflect on Ning Weixuan’s drunken confession and how he had failed to understand her feelings sooner. Later, Shu Yiran, having obtained Gao Ren's hotel information from Ning Weijin, found him in his room, which was strewn with instant noodle containers. Overwhelmed by his disheveled state, she began to cry.
Gao Ren forced a smile, assuring her that everything was under control and she shouldn't worry. Shu Yiran announced she was traveling to Beijing the next day, a trip Ning Weijin was unaware she would be joining. Gao Ren advised her not to set herself up for disappointment with Ning Weijin, but Shu Yiran was resolute, determined to insert herself between Ning Weijin and Dingding.
Episode 31 Recap
Ning Weijin informed Zheng Dingding about his upcoming business trip to Beijing for a week, to attend a breast cancer seminar. Dingding was initially reluctant but eventually agreed after Ning Weijin assured her he would be going alone. He even playfully suggested she accompany him, to which Dingding replied she was too busy, calling herself "Boss Zheng on the 'up curve' of her career" who needed to work harder.
She reiterated that no one else was allowed to go with him. At the airport, Dingding was shocked to find Shu Yiran waiting there. She confronted Ning Weijin, demanding to know why Shu Yiran was there when he had promised to go alone. Ning Weijin tried to explain he hadn't known Shu Yiran would be there, but Dingding was furious, stating she couldn't trust him with Shu Yiran standing right there.
She asked what he needed to do for her to believe him, suggesting he cancel the trip. Ning Weijin explained that the seminar was a rare and valuable opportunity with many national and international experts, one he genuinely didn't want to miss. Shu Yiran then chimed in, telling Ning Weijin that the dean had initially only allocated one spot, but perhaps they later decided it would be a pity to send only one person given such a good chance.
Dingding, feeling betrayed and convinced Ning Weijin was lying, angrily left the airport. Concerned, Ning Weijin immediately messaged his sister, Ning Weixuan, asking her to check on Dingding. When Ning Weixuan arrived, Dingding was upset, preparing to throw away a small scarf pillow, and talking about how she and Ning Weijin were "never meant for each other" professionally, believing he and Shu Yiran were a "perfect match." She felt she shouldn't have "gotten involved with them."
Ning Weixuan quickly countered, asserting that Shu Yiran was the one intruding and that if her brother truly liked Shu Yiran, he would have pursued her long ago. Dingding then revealed that Ning Weijin had gone to Beijing with Shu Yiran. Ning Weixuan was surprised, stating that the hospital had only sent her brother. Dingding, still feeling hurt, accused the siblings of conspiring to deceive her, which Ning Weixuan vehemently denied, reminding Dingding of her strong dislike for Shu Yiran.
Ning Weixuan then explained that given her brother's character, he would have told Dingding immediately if he had known Shu Yiran was going. Realizing she had wronged Ning Weijin, Dingding declared her intention to fly to Beijing to apologize. Ning Weixuan wholeheartedly supported the idea, joking that it was a "for love across the world" mission.
Dingding instructed Ning Weixuan not to tell Ning Weijin about her arrival, as she wanted to surprise him, though Ning Weixuan also playfully warned her about the potential dangers of "lonely in a new environment" scenarios, despite trusting her brother. Meanwhile, at the Beijing seminar, Ning Weijin was highly regarded, and many attendees praised his and Shu Yiran's professional chemistry, commenting on how "young and promising" and "tacit" they were, even speculating if they were a couple.
Shu Yiran, pleased by the attention, linked arms with Ning Weijin and suggested they go out for Peking duck instead of eating the provided work meal. Ning Weijin immediately pushed her arm away and initially declined, stating he would order in, but Shu Yiran pressed him, appealing to their "many years of friendship" and the "hospital's reputation," saying it would look bad if they appeared "seemingly harmonious." Ning Weijin reluctantly agreed.
Later that evening, Ning Weijin tried repeatedly to call and video call Dingding, but her phone was off. Growing anxious, he called Ning Weixuan, who feigned ignorance about Dingding's phone status and promised to try calling her. After some delay, Ning Weixuan called back, assuring Ning Weijin that Dingding was fine, just busy at home and hadn't noticed her phone was off. Relieved, Ning Weijin was then interrupted by a knock at his door.
It was Shu Yiran, who had brought him some documents. He opened the door only slightly, taking the documents without letting her in, explaining it was late and "not appropriate" for them to be alone. Shu Yiran, annoyed, threw the documents into the room. In another development, Wen Zixin was furious with Chen Xun and refused to answer his calls. Chen Xun, realizing his mistake, was desperate to win her back.
His colleague suggested that Wen Zixin's anger might stem from her valuing a missed audition opportunity. Taking the hint, Chen Xun immediately contacted Wen Zixin's agent to reschedule an audition for her in Beijing, buying her a flight ticket and urging her to pack. Still anxious and unsure if Wen Zixin had forgiven him, Chen Xun later decided to fly to Beijing himself to see her, asking his colleague to book the earliest flight and find out her whereabouts.
The next day, Dingding arrived at the seminar hotel. The front desk informed her that the attendees were out for an investigation, so she waited in the lobby. Upon their return, Dingding overheard guests praising Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran as a "nice couple" and a "perfect match." Shu Yiran, noticing this, deliberately linked arms with Ning Weijin as they walked through the crowded lobby and suggested he come to her room to discuss something she had to show him.
Ning Weijin subtly withdrew his arm, but Dingding, after dropping her luggage at the front desk, secretly followed them to the 26th floor. Dingding watched as Ning Weijin entered Shu Yiran's room, but was relieved to see he left the door ajar. Shu Yiran's room was decorated with balloons, each with a note detailing her long-standing unrequited love for Ning Weijin.
She read them aloud, recalling meeting him in 2007, falling in love at first sight, and cherished memories like finding a Szechuan restaurant where he adorably struggled with spicy food, and their joy at being assigned to the same hospital in 2012. Shu Yiran explained that she believed these memories were mutual, and she had been patiently waiting for their relationship to naturally progress, but she "can't wait any more."
She then embraced Ning Weijin, professing her love and attempting to kiss him. Ning Weijin firmly pushed her away. Shu Yiran, refusing to accept his rejection, argued that she was the one who had known him first and had worked hard to be worthy of him, believing she was the only one qualified to stand by his side. She questioned why he chose Zheng Dingding.
Ning Weijin then explained to Shu Yiran that there was "no compatibility or incompatibility in love" in romance and that Dingding had been in his heart for a very long time. He revealed that the cat pendant he had used for years, called "Shrimp Ball," was a gift from Dingding.
He recounted how, after his mother's funeral in 2007, he was utterly heartbroken and lost, but Dingding, a kind young girl, gave him the "Shrimp Ball" pendant, promising it would absorb his unhappiness and release joy. She was like "a ray of sunshine" that "pulled me out from despair" and gave him hope.
He, who had never believed in fate, started believing when she reappeared in his life, seeing her as "the nicest piece" of his life's puzzle, making his life complete. He declared, "I love her." Overwhelmed with emotion and having heard his heartfelt confession, Dingding burst into the room and declared her love for him. Ning Weijin embraced her tightly.
A furious Shu Yiran lashed out at Dingding, accusing her of being "haunting" and ruining Ning Weijin's life, claiming he was no longer acting like a doctor, but only cared about dating. Ning Weijin then calmly revealed he had called the dean, who confirmed that Shu Yiran had voluntarily applied to come to Beijing and had specifically asked the dean not to inform him. Dingding then addressed Shu Yiran, acknowledging her feelings but advising her, "You are so excellent.
You should not waste your time on the impossible." With that, Dingding and Ning Weijin left hand-in-hand, leaving Shu Yiran kneeling on the floor, weeping as her years of love ended in futility. Shu Yiran decided to terminate her participation in the seminar and returned to the hospital early. To her surprise, her intern had kept her desk spotlessly clean. The intern, unaware of her early return, explained that he cleaned it daily, fearing she would find it dirty.
He expressed his deep admiration for her, saying he believed her skills were on par with Ning Weijin's and that she was "very charming" when working hard. Hearing this, Shu Yiran reflected on how much she had changed and "deteriorated" in her pursuit of Ning Weijin, realizing her "true self." Later, Shu Yiran met with Gao Ren, telling him her confession to Ning Weijin was "to give myself an explanation" and "a relief."
She acknowledged that she had become "more and more annoying" and "not myself anymore" since Ning Weijin and Dingding got together, realizing a good relationship should make both parties better. Gao Ren, happy to see her returning to her proud self, then confessed his own long-standing feelings for her, going back to their college days. He recounted how he had accidentally brought her into their social circle, only for her to fall for Ning Weijin, his best friend.
Torn between his friend and his "dream lover," he became part of their "trio," waiting six years for her to either give up Ning Weijin or for them to officially get together so he could move on. He admitted he hadn't confessed earlier for fear of breaking up their friendship.
However, recent events had made him re-evaluate his feelings, realizing he needed to "face my feelings honestly" and that his feelings for her were more of an "obsesssion" that he needed to move past. Shu Yiran, touched by his loyalty, thanked him for his companionship. She then revealed her plans to "study abroad," which Gao Ren supported, wishing her well in finding her own happiness in a new environment.
Episode 32 Recap
Chen Xun was deeply worried about Wen Zixin, who hadn't responded to his messages since going to Beijing. His colleague, Cat, suggested he go to Beijing to see her in person, but urged him to first decide whether he intended to bring her back or let her pursue her own path there. Chen Xun took the earliest flight to Beijing to find Wen Zixin, who was initially cold towards him.
He presented her with a termination letter, explaining that she was no longer his assistant and was free to pursue her own passions. Chen Xun sincerely apologized, admitting his past selfishness with both Wen Zixin and Dingding, realizing he always expected his girlfriends to revolve around him without considering their individual lives, pursuits, and ideals.
Wen Zixin, touched by his sincerity, eventually forgave him, though she asked if he would manage without her, to which he responded he was the boss of Chengpin and had confidence. Wen Zixin then shared that she hadn't been selected for the audition. After speaking with the director, she realized her interest in working in front of the camera had waned, especially after enjoying her recent time helping Chen Xun from behind the scenes.
The director, seeing her potential, recommended her for a director assistant position for a reality show that would begin filming in two weeks. Wen Zixin was thrilled, expressing deep happiness for this new role, which she felt was truly meant for her. Chen Xun, relieved, assured her he now trusted her completely. Upon Ning Weijin's return to the hospital, Shu Yiran greeted him with a heavy punch from behind, declaring them even.
Ning Weijin was relieved to see her back to her usual self. Shu Yiran revealed her decision to study abroad and asked Ning Weijin to check on Gao Ren, who was now homeless. Ning Weijin invited Gao Ren for skewers, where Gao Ren vented his frustrations about the skyrocketing rent and the difficulty of finding an affordable place after days of searching. Ning Weijin generously offered Gao Ren a place in his own home.
Gao Ren initially worried about Ning Weixuan's reaction, but Ning Weijin assured him that as it was his house and Ning Weixuan was merely a guest, she wouldn't move out even if she was upset. Grateful, Gao Ren jokingly offered to be Ning Weijin's "sweetheart." Ning Weijin also shared that he had expressed his true feelings to Shu Yiran, which brought him relief, admitting that his prolonged "insistence" might have been more about habit than deep love.
After dinner, Gao Ren moved into Ning Weijin’s apartment, much to Ning Weixuan's dismay. She confronted Ning Weijin, demanding he choose between her and Gao Ren. Ning Weijin silently gestured for her to leave, effectively choosing Gao Ren. Enraged, Ning Weixuan kicked Gao Ren’s luggage, which scattered its contents, revealing a photo of Gao Ren, Shu Yiran, and Ning Weijin. Seeing Shu Yiran's image further fueled Ning Weixuan's anger, and she defiantly declared she wouldn't move out.
The next morning, Gao Ren stated his intention to return to work quickly, prompting Ning Weixuan to sarcastically remark about him earning money and moving out sooner. Later, Ning Weixuan informed Dingding that Shu Yiran had rejected Gao Ren and was going abroad, signifying Gao Ren had truly let go. Gao Ren returned to work after the hospital investigation found he was not entirely to blame for the previous accident and that he had a flawless record prior.
A loyal client, Miss He, specifically requested him for a minor surgery. Gao Ren tried to reassure himself that he could handle it, but once in the operating room, he was plagued by flashbacks of Yu Jiali's harsh words, "You're ruining my daughter, ruining her whole life. How is she going to get married?" His hands began to tremble uncontrollably, forcing him to ask Dr. Xiang to take over the operation, and he extended his leave.
Later that night, Ning Weixuan found Gao Ren drinking alone. She tried to stop him, but when he attempted to peel an apple, his hands shook so violently that he couldn't hold the knife steady. He despaired, "I am a doctor. I can't even hold a knife now." Ning Weixuan gently took the knife, offering, "You just want to eat an apple. Let me help you," and peeled it for him.
One morning, Dingding discovered Ning Weijin asleep in his car outside her apartment. He had just finished a night shift, and rather than disturbing her, he had waited there, confessing he missed her and felt energized just by seeing her, even calling it "recharging" by hugging her. This tender moment was interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Dingding’s parents.
Panicked at the thought of them discovering Ning Weijin, Dingding quickly hid him in the bathroom, fearing they would assume they were cohabiting. She tried to usher her parents away, feigning urgency for work, but they insisted on staying and even brought her breakfast. While Dingding went to change, her father needed to use the bathroom. Dingding desperately tried to block him, claiming the toilet was broken, but her parents, sensing something amiss, pushed the door open.
Ning Weijin, emerging from the bathroom, smoothly claimed he had just fixed the toilet, though Dingding's parents remained visibly unconvinced. During their conversation, Ning Weijin impressed Dingding's father by accurately stating his relationship with Dingding had lasted "four months and twenty-three days" and by expressing his serious commitment to Dingding. He promised to cherish and spoil her even more after marriage, echoing the father's own advice.
Dingding’s parents were overjoyed, immediately launching into excited discussions about wedding plans, from travel marriages to skiing in Switzerland, effectively sidelining a blushing Dingding. Dr. Xiang visited Ning Weixuan at her coffee shop, observing her distress over Gao Ren's condition. He offered to help Gao Ren regain his surgical skills, stating that despite their rivalry, he desired fair competition in both professional and romantic spheres.
When Ning Weixuan expressed doubt in her ability, Dr. Xiang suggested she actively provoke Gao Ren. Just then, Gao Ren arrived and, seeing Ning Weixuan engaged in an intense conversation with Dr. Xiang, pulled her away, warning her to be wary of "old men" and their "common tactics." Ning Weixuan, irritated, shot back that Gao Ren was the real "old man," and then, to further taunt him, she asked Dr. Xiang for advice on a "minor plastic surgery."
Gao Ren quickly intervened, offering to perform the procedure himself. Ning Weixuan challenged him, asking if he could even peel an apple, referencing his earlier struggle. Dr. Xiang then suggested Gao Ren might be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and offered to introduce him to a psychologist, which Gao Ren angrily refused before leaving dejectedly. Ning Weixuan, believing that competition among men would be the most effective stimulus, decided to continue with Dr. Xiang's plan.
Meanwhile, Ning Weijin received a message from Dingding, praising his skill in charming her parents. He reaffirmed his serious intention to marry her, causing her to blush. Ning Weixuan and Dr. Xiang enjoyed a game of badminton, during which Ning Weixuan fondly recalled her past as a "sports girl," capable of any sport, including ballroom dancing, if not for Gao Ren's past blunders. While Ning Weixuan was in the restroom, Gao Ren called her.
Dr. Xiang answered the phone, explaining her absence. Gao Ren, immediately suspicious, warned Dr. Xiang to stay away from Ning Weixuan. Dr. Xiang retorted by highlighting Gao Ren’s past failure to cherish Ning Weixuan and his current clinginess. Upon her return, Ning Weixuan clarified they were simply playing badminton, then firmly told Gao Ren not to call her again and instructed Dr. Xiang not to answer her phone without permission.
Meanwhile, Ning Weijin, feeling their previous encounter with Dingding’s parents was too abrupt, arranged a formal dinner and prepared thoughtful gifts. Dingding initially expressed frustration at his lack of consultation, but Ning Weijin, playfully calling her mother to "complain" via phone, soon had her parents enthusiastically agreeing to the dinner. Ning Weijin reassured Dingding of his sincere desire to marry her, promising to discuss important matters with her first in the future.
At the dinner, Dingding’s parents were thoroughly charmed by Ning Weijin's gifts and attentiveness, particularly a chess set inscribed by Mr. Tang, a patient's relative. They quickly turned the conversation to wedding plans, eagerly asking about a date. Dingding, flustered, accused her mother of being too hasty. Her mother confessed her anxiety stemmed from fear of Dingding repeating past heartbreaks, specifically mentioning Chen Xun, for which she quickly apologized to Ning Weijin.
Dingding’s father smoothed things over, assuring Ning Weijin that his wife's straightforwardness was rooted in wanting the best for their daughter and promising no parental interference in their decisions. Separately, Dr. Xiang expressed his desire to adopt a cat but wanted to "intern" at Ning Weixuan's cat café first, to ensure he could be a responsible pet owner, a proposition Ning Weixuan happily accepted, albeit with a reminder about the minimum charge.
Later, Gao Ren, still concerned about Dr. Xiang's intentions, waited at the badminton court to take Ning Weixuan home. However, Ning Weixuan rejected his offer, pushing him away. Gao Ren accused her of inconsistency—avoiding him before and now clinging to him—to which Ning Weixuan retorted that he was the one who had hurt her the most, making him realize his past behavior had indeed earned her scorn.
Ning Weijin was seen at a jewelry store, meticulously selecting and engraving a wedding ring, emblazoned with the Latin phrase "Ad Finem Esta Fide" (Be faithful to the end), signaling his earnest intent to propose to Dingding. Shortly after, Dingding received a call from her mother, who, in her excitement, had just realized a crucial step they had overlooked: meeting Ning Weijin's parents. She insisted that Dingding arrange the meeting promptly, emphasizing, "You're getting married." Dingding appeared hesitant about this rapid progression.
Episode 33 Recap
Dingding's mother realized that despite her daughter and Ning Weijin being engaged, she had yet to meet Ning Weijin's parents. She firmly believed that both sets of parents should formally meet to discuss the marriage. Dingding, wary of upsetting Ning Weijin's father given their past unpleasant encounter, tried to deflect, but her mother insisted this was an inevitable step.
Separately, Ning Weijin reassured Dingding that his decision to marry her was not impulsive but his deepest commitment, and he was willing to slow down the process if she felt it was too soon, as long as she understood his sincerity. Ning Weixuan, startled, opened the bathroom door just as Gao Ren emerged.
She chastised him for being idle and staying home all day, suggesting he should see a psychiatrist as Dr. Xiang had recommended, accusing him of being defeated by a single setback. Gao Ren, in turn, cautioned Ning Weixuan to keep her distance from Dr. Xiang, claiming they were incompatible. Ning Weixuan retorted, asking if he, Gao Ren, was suitable for her then. Suddenly, Gao Ren firmly clasped her hand.
Recalling Dr. Xiang's advice to provoke Gao Ren, Ning Weixuan forcefully pushed his hand away. Undeterred by Dingding's reluctance, her parents sought Xiao Feng's help to find the address of Ning Weijin's father. Armed with gifts, they went to visit, Dingding's mother explaining that she simply wanted to assess Ning Weijin's family and ensure her daughter wouldn't face hardships after marriage. Upon arriving, Dingding's mother enthusiastically greeted Ning Weijin's father as "in-law."
Ning Weijin's father, however, did not recall Dingding until Yin Fei reminded him. He then sternly declared his absolute refusal to approve the marriage, asserting that Dingding and Ning Weijin were from different worlds and incompatible social standings, making their union unlikely to be happy. Yin Fei further fueled the tension by claiming that Shu Yiran was Ning Weijin's preferred girlfriend, whom their family adored, and that Dingding's appearance had caused a misunderstanding, forcing Shu Yiran to leave the country.
Enraged, Dingding's mother accused Yin Fei of having been a "homewrecker" herself. The exchange escalated into a heated argument, ending with Ning Weijin's father angrily expelling Dingding's parents from his home. Dingding's parents immediately called her, demanding she break up with Ning Weijin. They recounted the disrespectful encounter with Ning Weijin's father and Yin Fei's accusations.
Dingding clarified that Shu Yiran was a university classmate who had a one-sided affection for Ning Weijin, and after Ning Weijin clearly communicated his feelings, Shu Yiran chose to study abroad independently, not because Dingding forced her. Despite this, her parents insisted that marriage involved two families, not just two individuals. While they approved of Ning Weijin personally, they foresaw endless conflicts with his contemptuous family and feared for Dingding's happiness.
They emphasized that they didn't desire a wealthy match for her, only a happy one, which they believed was impossible with Ning Weijin's family. Dingding then called Ning Weijin, expressing her unwillingness to break up but acknowledging her parents' need for an explanation. Ning Weijin immediately offered to go see her parents, but Dingding dissuaded him, believing it would only worsen the situation while they were still upset. She promised to find a way to resolve the conflict herself.
Ning Weijin apologized for the distress he had caused Dingding and her family. The next morning, Dingding's mother arrived at her apartment, tidying up and preparing meals, openly admitting her intention to supervise Dingding until she ended her relationship with Ning Weijin. When Ning Weixuan visited, Dingding's mother expressed her fondness for Ning Weixuan, hoping their friendship would remain unaffected by the breakup.
Dingding's mother maintained strict surveillance, restricting Dingding's phone access and forbidding her from leaving the house or contacting Ning Weijin. Ning Weixuan relayed this situation to her brother. Ning Weijin asserted his determination to see Dingding, declaring that his father's opposition would not prevent him from marrying her, as his relationship with Dingding was independent of his father's views.
Relieved by his resolve, Ning Weixuan encouraged him to engage with Dingding's parents, drawing a clear distinction between them and "that person," referring to his father, whom she stated she would not forgive. One morning, as Dingding watered plants in her garden, a paper airplane glided in, bearing a handwritten message, "Miss you." Seizing a moment when her mother was preoccupied in the kitchen, Dingding quickly slipped out of the yard to meet Ning Weijin, and they embraced tightly.
When Dingding's mother called out for her to come for breakfast, Ning Weijin swiftly hid in the adjacent yard. Dingding, feigning casualness, claimed she had stepped out to inquire about an express package, displaying the furtive behavior of young lovers avoiding parental detection. For several days, Dingding remained under her mother's strict watch. She could only covertly use Ning Weixuan's phone during her visits to call Ning Weijin, both of them suffering from intense longing and distraction.
Later, while shopping for clothes with her mother, Dingding managed to meet Ning Weijin secretly in the store. Ning Weijin recited a "cheesy pick-up line" he had learned from a book given to him by Ning Weixuan, which made Dingding laugh. When her mother approached, Dingding quickly grabbed two dresses, pretending to have selected them for her, thus creating a diversion for Ning Weijin to discreetly leave.
Another day, a paper airplane once again landed in Dingding's garden, but this time, her mother discovered it. Stepping outside, she found Ning Weijin holding a bouquet of flowers. Dingding's mother directly thanked Ning Weijin for the flowers before swiftly pulling Dingding away, preventing any opportunity for them to speak. That night, restless and unable to sleep, Dingding messaged Ning Weijin, proposing that they elope.
To her delight, Ning Weijin immediately agreed, filling her with a mix of excitement and anticipation. The following morning, Dingding packed her belongings and quietly left the house before her mother awoke. Ning Weijin's car was already waiting. With no specific destination in mind, they felt that being together was all that mattered. Dingding remarked that their clandestine meetings and escape made them feel like Romeo and Juliet. They spent the entire day enjoying their freedom.
That evening, as they sought a hotel, they discovered only a single couple's suite available. Dingding and Ning Weijin thus found themselves sharing a bed. Ning Weijin chuckled at Dingding's shyness, prompting her to playfully throw a pillow, initiating a joyous pillow fight. Feathers from the pillows scattered across the room, marking what was likely their happiest day in a long time. They eventually lay hand-in-hand amidst the feathers, falling asleep in each other's arms.
Meanwhile, Dingding's mother, unable to find her daughter, frantically called Xiao Feng and Chen Xun, but neither knew Dingding's whereabouts. Ning Weixuan also reported that Ning Weijin's phone was off. Dingding's mother grew increasingly anxious. Wen Zixin, observing Dingding's social media, deduced that Dingding and Ning Weijin had eloped due to her mother's disapproval. She noted that highly obedient individuals often rebel most fiercely. Wen Zixin speculated that a wedding might soon follow.
Gao Ren was astonished by the news of Ning Weijin's elopement, remarking on how unexpected it was for someone typically unswayed by romantic passion. Ning Weixuan found the elopement romantic and wished for a similar experience. Gao Ren impulsively offered to elope with her, causing Ning Weixuan's heart to flutter. However, she quickly dismissed his offer, sarcastically suggesting he'd prefer to elope with Shu Yiran. Gao Ren insisted his relationship with Shu Yiran was in the past.
Ning Weixuan, growing irritated, demanded he pay his rent before retreating into her room. Dingding's father, witnessing his wife's distress, sought to comfort her by recalling their own youth. He reminded her that her own parents had once opposed their marriage, leading her to sneak out at night, climb a wall, and run away with him. He recounted his silent vow to cherish her forever, having realized she had entrusted him with her entire future.
He urged his wife to understand that Dingding had found a man equally devoted to her, just as he had been to his wife. He advised her not to be overly strict, expressing his belief in Ning Weijin's character. Dingding and Ning Weijin eventually returned, each carrying a bouquet of flowers, and knelt at Dingding's doorstep, earnestly requesting her mother's blessing for their relationship.
Dingding's mother, allowing them inside, stated her condition: she would temporarily permit their relationship, but Ning Weijin must ensure his family wholeheartedly accepted Dingding and manage any tensions between Dingding and his family. She warned that if Dingding were ever to be wronged again due to his father's attitude, she would retract her compromise. Ning Weijin promised he would not allow his father to interfere. Dingding's mother concluded by emphasizing her hope for a marriage that had the genuine approval of both families, rather than one pursued despite such opposition.
Episode 34 Recap
The morning after their elopement, Zheng Dingding and Ning Weijin knelt outside Zheng Dingding’s parents’ home, seeking their blessing. Zheng Dingding's father covertly showed his support for Ning Weijin. Zheng Dingding’s mother agreed to allow them to continue their relationship, but with a strict condition: Ning Weijin’s family must genuinely accept Zheng Dingding. She warned that if Zheng Dingding were ever to be wronged again due to Ning Weijin’s father's attitude, she would never back down.
Ning Weijin assured her he would not let his father interfere and would handle his family, emphasizing his dislike for those who are unfaithful. Zheng Dingding’s mother clarified that while Ning Weijin could choose to ignore his father, she hoped their marriage would have the approval of both sets of parents and that Ning Weijin’s father would express a supportive attitude. She also shared her belief that true love means cherishing a person for a lifetime.
Meanwhile, Gao Ren reflected on a recent failed surgery, realizing his mind had been distracted by thoughts of "her." Later, Ning Weijin asked Gao Ren to pick up Ning Weixuan from work, as he was taking Zheng Dingding to meet his father. Gao Ren arrived at Ning Weixuan's cafe with a bouquet of flowers, which Ning Weixuan coldly declared she was "allergic to your flowers."
She rebuked him for being idle and lacking ambition, asking if he had any money to treat her to dinner. Gao Ren, in turn, offered to work as a waiter at her cafe, but Ning Weixuan refused. Just then, Dr. Xiang arrived and also invited Ning Weixuan to dinner. She readily accepted, much to Gao Ren's disappointment. Ning Weixuan told Gao Ren he should go clean cat litter, implying he was useless.
As Dr. Xiang ordered a coffee, Gao Ren eagerly volunteered to deliver it, but "accidentally" spilled it all over Dr. Xiang, claiming it was his first time doing such a thing. He told Dr. Xiang he couldn't possibly have dinner looking like that and should go change. After Dr. Xiang went to the restroom to clean up, Gao Ren followed, making mocking remarks.
Despite her outward coldness, once Gao Ren left, Ning Weixuan immediately asked Lei to arrange the flowers Gao Ren had brought, calling his actions "childish." Ning Weijin then took Zheng Dingding to his father’s house, announcing their decision to marry. His father retorted with sarcasm, asking if this was a "unilateral notification" or a request for "permission." Zheng Dingding politely clarified that they hoped for his consent.
Ning Weijin defended his presence as a sign of respect for his father’s role, urging him not to disappoint Zheng Dingding. However, Ning’s father grew angry, accusing Ning Weijin of disrespect for bringing a girl home and suddenly announcing marriage. He adamantly refused to agree to the marriage, stating they were not a suitable match.
Yin Fei attempted to calm Ning Weijin, advising him that his straightforward manner had been too harsh and that father and son truly needed to communicate. Zheng Dingding, introducing herself politely to Yin Fei, explained that she and Ning Weijin were genuinely in love and hoped for their blessings, requesting Yin Fei’s help in persuading Ning’s father. Yin Fei agreed. In his study, Ning’s father was still angry.
Yin Fei tried to reason with him, suggesting that Ning Weijin seemed truly committed to Zheng Dingding and that Shu Yiran herself had moved on. Ning’s father admitted his primary concern was Zheng Dingding’s health, fearing that if anything happened to her, it would be another devastating blow to Ning Weijin, much like his mother’s passing from breast cancer. Yin Fei chided him for "cursing" the girl, but then acknowledged his underlying concern for Ning Weijin.
She proposed that Ning’s father make a gesture for Ning Weijin's upcoming birthday to mend their relationship, suggesting he buy him some suits. Back at his own home, Ning Weijin was visibly frustrated, taking his anger out on the cat. Ning Weixuan gently took the cat away, suggesting Ning Weijin and Zheng Dingding just proceed with their wedding without his father's approval.
Ning Weijin explained it was a test from Zheng Dingding’s parents that he had to pass to earn their trust. Ning Weixuan lamented, "If only mother were here, it won't be that complicated," a sentiment Ning Weijin shared, acknowledging their mother was now only a memory. Ning Weixuan visited Zheng Dingding, who sensed Ning Weixuan’s deep resentment towards their father and encouraged her to talk things out, suggesting there might have been misunderstandings when they were young.
Ning Weixuan vehemently rejected the idea, blaming her father's preoccupation with work for her mother's death. She believed her father was happy with Yin Fei and indifferent to them. Zheng Dingding disagreed, mentioning her own observations that Ning’s father seemed to miss them. Zheng Dingding argued that childhood perceptions might not reflect the full truth and urged for a sit-down conversation, but Ning Weixuan threatened to cut ties if Zheng Dingding continued to defend her father.
They then shifted the topic to Ning Weijin's upcoming birthday. Gao Ren was still struggling with his inability to handle a scalpel, making a return to the hospital seem distant. Ning Weixuan once again told him to go make money instead of being idle, and suggested he see a psychiatrist.
He briefly tried to enter the hospital but quickly left, making an excuse about another surgery, which Dr. Xiang (who was also there) mocked, inviting Ning Weixuan and Gao Ren for a weekend trip. Gao Ren declined. Later, Gao Ren saw a "Hiring" sign at Ning Weixuan's cafe and applied. Ning Weixuan rejected him outright, stating he was overage and didn't meet their "good-looking" criteria, even though he comically claimed to have just turned eighteen.
He pursued her into Zheng Dingding’s studio, pleading for the job. Zheng Dingding intervened, suggesting Ning Weixuan hire him, partly because the café only had one male staff member, Yunsheng, and also to help Gao Ren overcome his slump. Just then, a water pipe in the cafe’s restroom burst. Gao Ren immediately rushed to fix it, quickly repairing the pipe and cleaning up the water.
Impressed by his initiative and practical skills, and with Zheng Dingding’s further persuasion, Ning Weixuan finally agreed to give Gao Ren a three-day trial period. Yin Fei tried to see Ning Weijin at the hospital by taking a patient number, hoping to discuss Zheng Dingding. However, Ning Weijin showed no patience, immediately dismissing her and asking Miaomiao to call the next patient, leaving Yin Fei feeling helpless.
Unable to speak to Ning Weijin herself, Yin Fei sought out Zheng Dingding for help. Zheng Dingding advised Ning Weijin to talk to his father, suggesting that even if he couldn’t forgive him, he should at least give him an opportunity to explain himself. A few days before Ning Weijin’s birthday, Ning’s father consulted Yin Fei about picking out suits for Ning Weijin.
He expressed doubts about finding something suitable without knowing Ning Weijin's size and his inability to meet his son. Ning Weijin unexpectedly returned home. Ning’s father quickly hid behind a newspaper, but Yin Fei encouraged him to face his son and left to prepare food, giving them a chance to talk.
Their conversation, however, was stiff and formal, with Ning Weijin even asking his father about his health and offering a check-up, prompting his father to ask if he was "making a house call." Yin Fei soon returned with a fruit platter to ease the awkward atmosphere. After Ning Weijin left, Ning’s father couldn't hide a faint smile. Yin Fei, noticing his subtle happiness, pointed out his stubborn yet soft-hearted nature, similar to his son’s.
She reminded him that Zheng Dingding had encouraged Ning Weijin to come for dinner, meaning he "owed her a lot." Yin Fei shared her positive impression of Zheng Dingding, urging Ning’s father to accept her. She suggested that on Ning Weijin’s birthday, his father should give his explicit approval, as that would be the most meaningful gift. Meanwhile, Gao Ren attempted to peel an apple with a fruit knife at home, but his hand still trembled uncontrollably.
Ning Weixuan returned late, and when Gao Ren asked if she had been out with Dr. Xiang, she coldly replied, "It's none of your business." On Ning Weijin's birthday, Ning’s father went to the mall to choose clothes for him, but ultimately bought a different gift as he didn't know Ning Weijin's size. Yin Fei had earlier suggested he ask Zheng Dingding for the size.
Before heading to Ning Weijin's house, Ning's father was advised to be kind to Zheng Dingding. Zheng Dingding planned a surprise birthday dinner for Ning Weijin, asking Ning Weixuan to keep him occupied while she prepared. Zheng Dingding arrived at Ning Weijin's house using a key given by Ning Weixuan. As she played with the cat, Ning’s father unexpectedly arrived. Zheng Dingding, flustered, quickly explained she had just arrived and was there to prepare the meal.
Ning’s father, who disliked cats, found cat hair everywhere. He became visibly agitated and, taking out a vacuum cleaner, put on a doctor’s coat and a mask to clean the living room. His demeanor and posture were strikingly similar to Ning Weijin’s, which made Zheng Dingding laugh. She commented on how Ning Weijin behaved the same way at home, also hating cat hair, and only had the cat because Ning Weixuan insisted.
Zheng Dingding remarked that Ning Weijin was truly his father’s "spitting image," which brought a rare smile to Ning’s father’s face. Satisfied with Zheng Dingding's diligent cooking, Ning’s father sat down. When Ning Weijin and Ning Weixuan returned, Ning Weijin questioned Ning Weixuan about the surprise, reminiscing about how they used to celebrate their birthdays together. Ning Weixuan explained this year was different because he now had Zheng Dingding.
As they entered, Ning Weixuan excitedly called out to Zheng Dingding, almost spoiling the surprise. Ning Weijin jokingly asked if he should pretend to be surprised. Zheng Dingding then wished him a happy birthday, implying another gift was waiting.
Episode 35 Recap
Ning Weixuan enthusiastically took Ning Weijin to buy a birthday cake. She explained that this year was particularly special because he was now not only her older brother but also Dingding's best boyfriend. Ning Weijin was surprised, noting they usually celebrated his birthday together with hers. He then inquired if Dingding was aware of his birthday, to which Ning Weixuan replied she wasn't, promising a surprise waiting for him at home.
Upon their arrival, Ning Weixuan's excited shout of "Dingding, we are home!" inadvertently revealed the surprise. Ning Weijin, playing along, asked Dingding if he should pretend to be unaware, and then Dingding wished him a happy birthday. Ning Weixuan then spotted a gift box, assuming it was from Dingding, and eagerly handed it to Ning Weijin. Inside was an expensive brand-name watch, prompting Ning Weixuan to commend Dingding's thoughtfulness.
However, Dingding quickly clarified that she had only prepared the chicken wings, while Ning Suqing was responsible for the rest of the elaborate meal and the watch. As Ning Suqing emerged from the kitchen with a dish, Ning Weixuan's mood soured, and she reprimanded Dingding for inviting someone she deemed unwelcome. Ning Suqing, still in his apron, prepared to leave. Dingding subtly encouraged Ning Weijin to ask his father to stay.
Ning Weijin, not wanting to spoil Dingding's efforts on his birthday, persuaded his sister to allow Ning Suqing to remain, to which Ning Weixuan reluctantly agreed. An awkward silence settled over the dinner table, despite the spread of food. Dingding attempted to initiate conversation, but only Ning Suqing offered brief, polite replies. Ning Weijin and Ning Weixuan remained quiet. Dingding conscientiously served everyone, and while Ning Weijin accepted, Ning Weixuan conspicuously only ate the chicken wings, refusing all other dishes.
Before leaving, Ning Suqing asked Ning Weijin for his suit size, intending to buy him a new one, which Ning Weijin agreed to provide later. Ning Suqing then thanked Dingding for her kindness towards his children and extended a formal invitation for her parents to dine with him, signaling his acceptance of their relationship. Dingding and Ning Weijin were overjoyed, embracing each other. Returning home, Ning Suqing, despite the dinner's tension, was noticeably happy.
He confided in Yin Fei that he hadn't shared such a meal with his children since their mother's death. He instructed Yin Fei to select suitable gifts and arrange a dinner with Dingding's parents, seeking to apologize for their previous unpleasant encounter. Ning Suqing observed that Ning Weijin's attitude was softening, though Ning Weixuan remained difficult due to her youth and quick temper.
Yin Fei asked if he wanted to show Ning Weijin Ding Rou's letter, but Ning Suqing decided to prioritize the wedding first. Meanwhile, Dingding's mother, deeply engrossed in calculations, handed Dingding a notebook. It contained a meticulous record of her dowry, a plan she had been diligently compiling since Dingding's birth.
She explained that while they were a well-off family, they couldn't compare to the wealthy Ning family, and she was determined that Dingding would not marry in a shabby manner or be perceived as marrying for money. Moved by her mother's enduring love and foresight, Dingding affectionately hugged her. Before meeting Ning Suqing and Yin Fei, Dingding's parents dressed formally.
Dingding’s mother stressed the importance of appearing dignified and instructed Dingding’s father to address her as “Mrs.” and himself as “Mr.” to ensure they presented a respectable image, believing their previous informal attire had led to disrespect. At the meeting, Ning Suqing offered a sincere apology for his past misunderstandings and rude remarks. Dingding's parents graciously accepted, affirming that they were not petty people and that the past should be forgotten.
With the air cleared, the two families moved on to discuss the details of Dingding and Ning Weijin’s wedding. At the coffee shop, Ning Weixuan covertly observed Gao Ren, her affection palpable, but quickly diverted her attention when he approached. Xiao Feng arrived with a girlfriend whose face was severely swollen from a botched hyaluronic acid injection at an illegal clinic.
Gao Ren examined her, diagnosing the issue as improper injection technique causing the drug to seep into surrounding tissues and lead to inflammation. He advised an anti-inflammatory shot and lysozyme to dissolve the hyaluronic acid. Ning Weixuan urged Gao Ren to perform the procedure himself, hoping it would help him overcome his fear and return to surgery. However, at the hospital, Gao Ren delegated the task to another doctor, much to Ning Weixuan's disappointment.
She bitterly criticized him for his continued phobia, stating he was now afraid of injections, not just surgeries. She declared that while she might lack his skills, she possessed the resilience to get back on her feet after any setback, unlike him. Gao Ren stood gazing at the operating room door, contemplating his future. Later, Dr. Xiang met Ning Weixuan at the hospital and invited her to go shopping, feigning a need for her advice on a gift.
Ning Weixuan spotted a beautiful dress but balked at the price, jokingly calling it ugly because she couldn't afford it. Amused by her candidness, Dr. Xiang secretly purchased the dress for her. Ning Weixuan accepted it but emphatically warned him that a mere dress would not buy her affection. He then took her to a romantic restaurant, where he confessed his admiration for her genuine, uninhibited nature—her ability to laugh and cry freely—and how relaxed he felt in her company.
Ning Weixuan, feeling unworthy, expressed surprise that he would like her and admitted she hadn't considered him romantically. Dr. Xiang encouraged her to seriously consider his proposal, suggesting a new relationship might help her heal from her past with Gao Ren. Back at the coffee shop, Ning Weixuan found Gao Ren still waiting for her because she had left her bag. He held a handmade strawberry cake roll.
He explained that Yunsheng had mentioned her liking for strawberry cake rolls, and he wanted her to taste his first attempt. Ning Weixuan was initially touched, but her emotions quickly turned to anger. She confronted him, reminding him that she had loved him and strawberry cakes for a long time, but he had always avoided her and ignored her gestures. Now that she was finally moving on, he was suddenly showering her with attention.
Frustrated, she demanded to know his true intentions. After Dr. Xiang, who had driven her back, left, Gao Ren struggled to articulate his feelings. Ning Weixuan, telling him to eat the cake himself, demanded he stop bothering her. As she walked away, Gao Ren finally blurted out, "I love you!" Separately, Ning Weijin was dealing with a breast cancer patient, Li Xinmei, in Bed 17. Despite being in Stage III, a treatable stage, she insisted on an early discharge.
Li Xinmei revealed that her husband had died two years prior, leaving her as the sole provider for her child's college education. She had kept her illness a secret from her child and prioritized saving money for tuition over her own treatment, even if it meant her death. Ning Weijin empathetically explained that her child would be devastated to learn of her sacrifice.
He then offered hope, informing her about the hospital’s charitable fund specifically for impoverished breast cancer patients, and promised to help her apply. Li Xinmei was profoundly grateful and relieved. Ning Weijin submitted the fund application. The director informed him that Li Xinmei was the first breast cancer patient to receive aid from the fund in its five years of existence.
The fund, established by an anonymous individual five years ago shortly after Ning Weijin joined the hospital, was intended to commemorate the donor's wife, who had died of breast cancer over a decade earlier. Suspecting his father, Ning Weijin requested access to the fund's records, which confirmed the donor's last name was Ning and his wife had passed away from breast cancer over ten years ago.
Later, Dingding suggested to Ning Weijin that his father's decision to establish the fund in that particular hospital, and at that specific time, might not just be out of guilt but a subtle way of supporting Ning Weijin, knowing the profound impact his mother's illness had on him. Ning Weijin, though initially joking, acknowledged the depth of her insight.
On the anniversary of Ning Weijin's mother, Ding Rou's, death, Ning Weijin was called away for an emergency surgery, so Dingding accompanied Ning Weixuan to the grave. Ning Suqing also arrived. Ning Weixuan immediately confronted her father, angrily accusing him of having an affair with Yin Fei while her mother was sick, claiming she had personally witnessed them holding hands coming out of their room. She declared that neither she nor her mother welcomed him, and told him to leave.
Ning Suqing was visibly shaken, suffering a stomach attack. Dingding took the ailing Ning Suqing home. There, Yin Fei revealed the truth to Dingding: Ning Suqing and Ding Rou had been divorced for over a year before Ding Rou's cancer diagnosis. They had decided to keep the divorce a secret from Ning Weijin and Ning Weixuan because the children were too young to cope with both their parents' separation and their mother's terminal illness.
Yin Fei emphasized that Ning Suqing had continued to care for Ding Rou throughout her illness, even after their divorce. She expressed a desire for open communication and understanding among all of them. Following Ning Weixuan's rejection and his own self-reflection, Gao Ren resolved to overcome his fears. He returned to the hospital to seek re-employment.
The Director informed him that, after an investigation which found he was not entirely responsible for the previous incident, and given his active cooperation and compensation, his reinstatement was approved. However, he would have to start from a more junior position, which Gao Ren gratefully accepted, with support from Dr. Xiang who had spoken on his behalf.
Episode 36 Recap
Gao Ren, his spirits restored, returned to the hospital. The director informed him that the hospital had thoroughly investigated the recent accident. Given that he was not entirely responsible and had actively cooperated in resolving the issues, including making compensation, he was permitted to resume work, albeit starting from the basic level. Meanwhile, Yin Fei sought out Dingding, hoping she would help resolve the lingering misunderstanding between Ning Suqing and Ning Weijin regarding his father's past.
Yin Fei revealed that Ning Suqing and Ding Rou had already been divorced for over a year when Ding Rou was diagnosed with cancer. Fearing that their young children, Ning Weijin and Ning Weixuan, would be devastated by the dual blow of divorce and cancer, they decided to keep the divorce a secret. Ning Suqing then stayed to care for Ding Rou.
Yin Fei presented Dingding with a letter from Ding Rou, penned by a nurse due to Ding Rou's trembling hands from her advanced illness. In the letter, Ding Rou expressed deep regret over the divorce but thanked Ning Suqing for his selfless care during her final year, acknowledging the immense burden he bore. She found solace and warmth in his presence, recalling their cherished memories and feeling less cold when facing death.
Ding Rou apologized to her children for leaving them, explaining that the pain had become unbearable, forcing her to abandon treatment. She urged them not to blame her or their father, affirming her love for them, and wished for Ning Suqing to find happiness with Yin Fei after her passing. She asked that the letter be revealed to the children when they were mature enough to understand. Ning Weijin shared the letter with Ning Weixuan.
Ning Weixuan initially rejected the truth, refusing to believe her mother had abandoned them. She recalled their mother’s constant smiles during hospital visits, leading them to believe she would return home, never imagining it was a final goodbye. Ning Weijin, while also struggling with the revelation, expressed understanding for his mother's choice in the face of immense pain.
He theorized that their father, fearing their hatred for their mother’s decision to give up, chose to bear their resentment by concealing the truth. Ning Weixuan, however, remained skeptical, questioning why her father hadn't revealed the letter earlier and even wondering if he had been involved with Yin Fei before the divorce, implying it might have caused her mother's illness. Ning Weijin dismissed these as speculations and proposed they confront their father for the full story.
Although still unable to fully forgive him, Ning Weixuan agreed to let Ning Weijin speak with their father after he returned from an upcoming free clinic. Ning Weixuan then mentioned having chest pain, attributing it to stress from her busy coffee shop. Ning Weijin, concerned, insisted she get a check-up, emphasizing that no physical symptom should be ignored. Ning Weixuan confided in Dingding, who described her past mammary fibroma symptoms—a painful lump, swelling, fatigue—and regretted not seeking treatment earlier.
Recognizing similarities, Ning Weixuan grew worried. As Dingding was due for her own re-examination, they decided to go together, using genetic technology test coupons a customer had given Ning Weixuan. At the medical center, Ning Weixuan felt overwhelmed by the sterile atmosphere and attempted to leave, but Dingding persuaded her to stay. While Dingding was undergoing her examination, Ning Weixuan spotted Dr. Xiang, who was there to visit a friend.
To avoid him discovering she was there for a check-up, Ning Weixuan quickly distracted him and led him away to chat, claiming she was merely accompanying Dingding. During her examination, the doctor noted Dingding's history of mammary fibroma and warned that her genes carried potential pathogens for breast disease, making recurrence highly probable. The doctor stressed that a delay in detection could have led to breast cancer and recommended a specialized breast examination.
Alarmed, and questioning the center’s legitimacy, Dingding took her report to the hospital to consult with intern Ding Yang. However, due to his limited experience, Ding Yang could not definitively confirm recurrence or other issues. Seeking further clarity, Dingding consulted online experts, who also could not provide a certain diagnosis but did not rule out the possibility of malignancy. These inconclusive findings left Dingding deeply anxious.
In a video call, Ning Weijin noticed Dingding’s troubled expression and asked if something was wrong. Not wanting to worry him while he was away, Dingding downplayed her fears about the medical report, simply saying she was tired. Upon Ning Weijin’s return from the free clinic, Dingding, citing other commitments, did not pick him up. Ning Weixuan drove him home and, unable to keep it to herself, revealed Dingding’s worrying medical report.
Ning Weijin, surprised, felt that Dingding's fibroma had a low recurrence rate. He expressed greater concern for Ning Weixuan, reminding her of their family history and the 10-30% hereditary risk of breast cancer. He urged her to get a full check-up immediately, but she resisted, citing obligations at her coffee shop. Later, Ning Weijin called Dingding.
Having already reviewed Dingding's preliminary report, Ning Weijin reassured her it was likely benign hyperplasia but insisted she undergo a more detailed examination the next day, promising his unwavering support regardless of the outcome. Despite her fears, Dingding, trusting his words, agreed. Ning Weijin then gathered everyone from the coffee shop (Gao Ren, Yunsheng, and Xiao Lei) to brainstorm ideas for a romantic proposal, hoping to uplift Dingding's spirits after her recent health worries.
He had already purchased a ring, engraved with the Latin phrase "be faithful to the end," which Ning Weixuan admired. Ning Weijin planned to propose the following day after Dingding's hospital check-up. However, chaos ensued when their cat, Ning Weinan, swallowed the engagement ring. They rushed the cat to the pet hospital.
At the pet hospital, Ning Weixuan, fearing Ning Weinan might require surgery to retrieve the ring and possibly die, called Dingding to alert her, hoping she would see the cat one last time. Ning Weijin, realizing his carefully planned surprise was compromised, asked Ning Weixuan to send Dingding away. Gao Ren, however, suggested an impromptu proposal at the pet hospital, believing the unexpected "scare" followed by a "surprise" would be memorable.
They hastily rushed home to retrieve the pre-made proposal signs. The veterinarian simply administered a laxative to Ning Weinan, and the ring was soon passed. Ning Weijin cleaned the ring, and with everyone's help, they quickly set up the proposal by the fountain outside the pet hospital. Ning Weixuan called Dingding again, fabricating a story about Ning Weinan needing its favorite toy from the cafe for a final play, which sped Dingding to their location.
Dingding arrived at the pet hospital to find Gao Ren, Yunsheng, Xiao Lei, and Ning Weixuan holding large cardboard signs adorned with romantic declarations and a proposal. Ning Weijin then knelt, presenting the ring. Dingding was deeply moved, her eyes welling with tears. However, the doctor's recent warning about her potential breast cancer risk flashed through her mind. Overwhelmed, she heartbreakingly refused Ning Weijin's proposal and ran away. Everyone was left stunned, unable to comprehend her refusal.
Following the failed proposal, Gao Ren blamed his inadequate planning, but Ning Weijin believed their relationship might not have reached that stage, or perhaps Dingding didn't fully trust him, citing her past reluctance to confide in him. Gao Ren then offered a series of insights on love, which Ning Weijin misinterpreted as a reflection on Shu Yiran, linking it to Gao Ren's past surgical error.
Gao Ren clarified that his mistake had nothing to do with Shu Yiran but was instead due to Ning Weixuan. He admitted that while he had always outwardly rejected Ning Weixuan, he had unknowingly fallen in love with her. During the period when she wasn't around, her absence caused him significant unease and distracted him during surgery, leading to the accident. He now fully understood that his constant thoughts of her were a clear sign of his deep affection.
Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan's calls to Dingding went unanswered. Dingding later confided in Xiaofeng, explaining her refusal stemmed from fear of her potential breast cancer and not wanting to burden Ning Weijin, especially given his mother's history of dying from breast cancer, which had been a lasting pain for him. Xiaofeng, however, reprimanded her for making assumptions without a confirmed diagnosis and urged her to get a re-examination.
Hearing Ning Weixuan mention Dingding's recent hospital visit for a check-up, Ning Weijin recalled Dingding's earlier medical concerns and realized she must be deeply worried about her health, regretting that the proposal preparations had overshadowed her well-being.
Episode 37 Recap
Dingding explained to Xiao Feng why she had refused Ning Weijin's marriage proposal, stating she couldn't be a burden to him for a lifetime. Xiao Feng accused her of being overly dramatic and suspicious, pointing out that she hadn't even undergone re-examination, let alone received a diagnosis, yet she was already worrying about contracting cancer and burdening Ning Weijin.
Dingding countered that the doctor at the examination center had mentioned she possessed breast cancer genes and had previously been diagnosed with a fibroma, suggesting a high chance of recurrence. Xiao Feng then realized she had rejected Ning Weijin's proposal based on these fears. Ning Weixuan mentioned that Dingding had recently gone for a medical check-up, prompting Ning Weijin to suddenly remember that he had promised to examine Dingding himself but had forgotten due to the engagement preparations.
He then deduced that Dingding likely believed she had a serious illness, perhaps hyperplasia or cancer, and that was why she had rejected his proposal. Ning Weijin agreed that this explained Dingding's behavior, attributing it to a patient's reluctance to admit illness. He decided to confront her immediately to resolve the misunderstanding. Ning Weijin presented Dingding with a "Feasibility Analysis of Marriage," a detailed report outlining potential issues in their marriage over the next decade, along with solutions.
He hoped this would ease her mind, but Dingding, feeling overwhelmed, declined to review it, stating her mind was too muddled and she needed quiet time to think. Ning Weijin felt Dingding didn't trust him, fearing he would abandon her if she fell ill. However, Gao Ren suggested that Dingding's self-sacrificing act stemmed from her deep love for Ning Weijin and her absolute trust that he would never leave her.
Gao Ren reasoned that if her illness was cured, all would be well, but if it wasn't, it would inflict a second, lifelong pain of guilt and suffering on Ning Weijin, as doctors aren't omnipotent. Dingding, he believed, wanted to spare Ning Weijin that agony. Gao Ren also mentioned that Ning Weixuan had been feeling unwell and suggested Ning Weijin take her for a check-up too.
Gao Ren noticed Ning Weixuan had been feeling uncomfortable lately and asked if she had gone for a check-up, to which she admitted she hadn't. Drawing on his past experience in the breast department, Gao Ren questioned her about other symptoms besides pain. He insisted that he would take her for a check-up.
Accompanying her to the hospital, Gao Ren tried to help her relax, even offering to let Ning Weixuan bite his arm, an offer she took, biting him hard. Despite the pain, Gao Ren reassured her, saying he'd offer his other arm if it helped her anxiety. Ning Weixuan was touched. Later, Ning Weijin conducted Dingding’s re-examination. When the results came back, Ning Weijin playfully declared Dingding to be in the late stages of "suspicion disease" with no cure.
Dingding initially panicked, believing her imagined breast cancer had metastasized to her heart, collapsing onto a chair in fright. She soon realized he was joking; she only had slight breast hyperplasia and was otherwise healthy. Relieved, Dingding hugged Ning Weijin, who then confirmed that her earlier rejection of his proposal was due to her fear of having cancer. He expressed his hope that they would face any future problems together, as that is the essence of a loving relationship.
Just as Dingding celebrated her clean bill of health, Ding Yang delivered Ning Weixuan’s examination report to Ning Weijin. The report indicated breast cancer, with the tumor's unfavorable shape suggesting a high probability of malignancy. Overwhelmed, Ning Weijin questioned why this disease had to afflict his family, first his mother and now his sister. Ning Weixuan, having overheard their conversation, confronted them. Though devastated, she remained resolute, expressing faith that Ning Weijin, as the best breast surgeon, would cure her.
She tearfully embraced them, but firmly asked Ning Weijin not to tell Gao Ren, fearing his timid nature would lead to an overwhelming and annoying reaction. Later, Ning Weixuan sat alone in a bar, drinking juice, when Dr. Xiang approached. She eventually confessed her cancer diagnosis to him. Dr. Xiang reaffirmed his affection for her, regardless of her health. Ning Weixuan, however, confessed she did not reciprocate his feelings.
She revealed that she knew Gao Ren liked her, and that was enough. She didn't want Gao Ren to know about her illness because she anticipated he would selflessly care for her, making her feel as though she was accepting him out of need, not love. She stated that any relationship with him would only happen after she recovered, and if he remained persistent before then, she would find a way to make him give up.
Gao Ren found Ning Weixuan outside the bar, having tried to reach her by phone. He confronted her, suspecting she had been drinking with Dr. Xiang again. Ning Weixuan angrily lashed out, telling him to stop meddling in her personal life. She accused him of being absent when she needed him before, and now, when she detested him, he was inexplicably persistent. She vehemently demanded he move out of her house immediately, wishing never to see him again.
A dejected Gao Ren left. Gao Ren later went to Dingding, seeking advice about Ning Weixuan. Dingding urged him to confess his true feelings for Ning Weixuan soon, or it might be too late. Gao Ren misinterpreted her words, fearing that Ning Weixuan and Dr. Xiang were becoming a couple, especially after her strange behavior at the bar. He angrily decided to confront Dr. Xiang at the hospital, informing Dingding by phone to meet him there.
Gao Ren stormed into the hospital, ready to argue with Dr. Xiang. Dr. Xiang calmly admitted he had confessed his feelings to Ning Weixuan but was rejected. Gao Ren gloated, convinced that Dr. Xiang's usual tactics wouldn't work on Ning Weixuan.
Dr. Xiang, however, challenged Gao Ren, pointing out that at least he had the courage to express his feelings, unlike Gao Ren, who was merely a "clown" making noise, too afraid to admit his love and prevent other men from approaching Ning Weixuan. Dr. Xiang then asked Gao Ren how he would react if Ning Weixuan had terminal cancer.
Shocked and disbelieving, Gao Ren initially dismissed it as a cruel curse, but Dr. Xiang confirmed Ning Weixuan's breast cancer diagnosis, explaining that she hadn't wanted him to know, but he felt it necessary to tell him. Gao Ren stood stunned, refusing to believe the news. Meanwhile, Ning Weijin took a leave of absence to care for Ning Weixuan, preparing a lavish breakfast for her. Ning Weixuan insisted she didn’t need special treatment or to be viewed as a patient.
Ning Weijin clarified he was simply caring for his sister, not a patient. Ning Weixuan was visibly moved and shed tears while eating. She felt that being sick surprisingly had its perks, as Ning Weijin seemed to indulge her more. She planned a party with Dingding to lighten the mood. Later that day, Ning Weixuan's father and Yin Fei arrived for a visit, causing Ning Weixuan to retreat into her room. Her father had lovingly prepared chicken soup for her.
Though she didn't speak to him, she accepted the soup, allowing him to feed her. As she ate, Ning Weixuan recalled her childhood, when her father would often make her chicken soup, a comfort she hadn't experienced in years. Overcome with emotion, she embraced her father, crying. He reassured her that she had him and her brother, and everything would be fine. As Ning Weixuan escorted her father to the door, her father gave her instructions on pre-surgery care.
Just then, Gao Ren rushed up, embraced Ning Weixuan, and confessed his love for her. Ning Weixuan's father, still in his car, witnessed the scene and immediately got out, flustered. Ning Weixuan, blushing, ran back into her room. Noticing her father, Gao Ren quickly clarified that he was serious about Ning Weixuan. Pleading at her door, Gao Ren poured out his heart, expressing deep regret for realizing his feelings so late.
He vowed to stand by her, no matter how much the surgery changed her appearance, even offering to shave his head in solidarity if she lost her hair. Moved by his sincere declaration, Ning Weixuan opened the door. She bit his arm hard, warning him that if he ever broke his promise, she would tear a piece of flesh from him. Gao Ren solemnly swore his unwavering loyalty, promising to give her the most perfect post-operative repair.
Ning Weijin informed Dingding that all arrangements for Ning Weixuan’s hospitalization and surgery were complete. Dingding comforted him, assuring him that with Ning Weixuan and Gao Ren now together, and his reconciliation with their father, everything would be fine. Ning Weijin then reminded Dingding that their own issue remained unresolved—her rejection of his proposal. Before Dingding could respond, she received an urgent phone call, learning that Chen Xun was in trouble and in need of rescue. She immediately left for the hospital where he was being treated, confirming with Big Cat that Chen Xun was in critical condition and being resuscitated.
Episode 38 Recap
Chen Xun and Cat were driving back after buying an engagement ring for Wen Zixin when the ropes on a truck carrying steel plates in front of them suddenly broke. The plates slid off, falling onto their car. Chen Xun quickly swerved to protect Cat, who sustained only minor scratches. Chen Xun, however, was critically injured and rendered unconscious, immediately rushed into surgery. Cat was overwhelmed with guilt.
Ning Weijin, present at the hospital, comforted Cat, assuring him the doctors would do everything they could for Chen Xun. The police located the responsible party and asked Cat to assist with the investigation. Cat was reluctant to leave Chen Xun's side, but Dingding persuaded him, explaining that helping the police understand the accident was important for Chen Xun's sake, and she would stay to look after him. Reassured, Cat left for the police station.
Dingding then tried to contact Wen Zixin, but her phone was unreachable because she was in a remote mountainous area filming a reality show. Dingding remained outside the emergency room, anxiously awaiting news. Ning Weijin came to check on Chen Xun, reporting that he was still in critical condition and not out of danger. He offered Dingding his office to rest while he accompanied Ning Weixuan for her preoperative examination, but Dingding insisted on staying.
The rescue efforts lasted until 10 PM, when a doctor finally informed Dingding that Chen Xun's vital signs were stable, but he would need to remain in the Intensive Care Unit for observation. The doctor couldn't predict when Chen Xun would regain consciousness, citing the severity of his injuries. As family members weren't allowed inside the ICU, Ning Weijin suggested Dingding rest in his on-call room for the night, since he was on night duty.
After completing her preoperative examinations, Ning Weixuan was admitted to the hospital to await surgery. Gao Ren set up a cot beside her bed, determined to stay with her and keep her company. He pledged his unwavering devotion, declaring that he wouldn't care for anyone but her from now on. Ning Weixuan, touched by his sincerity, playfully asked him to cut an orange for her. Gao Ren was assigned to work under Dr. Xiang, starting with simpler cases.
He was puzzled why Dr. Xiang seemed to be helping him rather than retaliating. Gao Ren confronted Dr. Xiang, proudly stating that Ning Weixuan was now his and Dr. Xiang couldn't take her away. Dr. Xiang found Gao Ren's behavior childish, explaining that he had earnestly pursued Ning Weixuan, but she didn't reciprocate his feelings, so maintaining their friendship was preferable.
He emphasized that he was helping Ning Weixuan, not Gao Ren, and that not all relationships between men and women had to be romantic. Gao Ren, unconvinced, insisted that Ning Weixuan belonged to him and that he would not give her up. After spending the night in Ning Weijin's on-call room, Dingding immediately went back to the ICU the next morning.
Chen Xun was still unconscious, and Dingding, overwhelmed and anxious by this unfamiliar crisis involving someone she knew, desperately wanted to help but didn't know how. A nurse informed her that only family members could enter the ICU, and that Chen Xun’s family couldn’t be reached. Ning Weijin reassured her that the doctors had done everything possible, and Chen Xun's recovery now depended on his own will.
He insisted they get something to eat, telling her she was too nervous and neglecting herself, making him worry. Dingding received a call from her mother, inviting her to dinner with both sets of parents to discuss her and Ning Weijin's wedding. Dingding declined, explaining she needed to stay at the hospital to care for the unconscious Chen Xun, whose family was unavailable.
Ning Weijin was visibly upset, as it was their wedding being discussed, yet Dingding was prioritizing her ex-boyfriend. He expressed his concern that she constantly became overwhelmed and highly stressed by others' problems. Dingding, hoping to appease him, promised to leave Chen Xun's side once Cat returned. Noticing Dingding's persistent cough and a sore throat, Ning Weijin grew even more frustrated.
He insisted she immediately call Cat and demand that someone from Chen Xun's company take over his care, arguing that with so many employees, someone must be available. Dingding, feeling unwell, agreed to call. A month after Wang Minying gave birth, her follow-up physical examination revealed that her cancer had metastasized.
Her husband, furious, confronted Ning Weijin, blaming him because the initial treatment plan, developed by Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran, had aimed to save both mother and child, despite his wish to only save the mother. He asserted that Wang Minying was discharged with no issues, yet now her cancer had spread. He demanded Ning Weijin be held responsible and fired. Ning Weijin was taken aback by this development.
The Director intervened, confirming that he had approved the original treatment plan and that Wang Minying's discharge tests were clear. He asked about her medication adherence, to which her husband insisted she followed instructions. The Director proposed hospitalizing Wang Minying immediately for detailed tests to find the cause of the metastasis and formulate a new treatment plan, emphasizing that while the cancer had spread, it was not uncontrollable.
However, her husband refused to let Ning Weijin treat her and insisted on his immediate dismissal. Ning Weijin stated he would accept punishment if it was truly his fault. The Director eventually persuaded Wang Minying's husband to allow the hospital three days to investigate the cause of the cancer spread and provide a satisfactory answer, with other doctors taking over her immediate care.
Meanwhile, Dr. Xiang assigned Gao Ren to perform a breast augmentation surgery, which Gao Ren accepted, keen to regain his surgical skills before Ning Weixuan's upcoming operation. Dr. Xiang advised him to communicate thoroughly with the patient who would arrive that afternoon. Cat rushed to the hospital after being called, but his phone was constantly ringing with urgent company matters.
Seeing Chen Xun's condition unchanged, Cat pleaded with Dingding to continue caring for Chen Xun for a few more days, then left in a hurry before she could respond. Ning Weijin went to the dinner with both sets of parents alone, explaining Dingding's absence. Though the parents were understanding and agreed to reschedule discussions about the wedding, Ning Weijin felt deeply unsettled.
He confessed to Gao Ren that he had underestimated Chen Xun's significance in Dingding's heart, feeling jealous and unsure of her feelings after her constant presence at Chen Xun's bedside. Gao Ren suggested that perhaps Dingding's comfort in caring for Chen Xun stemmed from her profound trust in Ning Weijin, confident that he wouldn't doubt her. While Ning Weijin wished this were true, his discomfort lingered. Ning Weijin discovered Dingding had a high fever.
He brought her chicken soup, chiding her for overworking and neglecting her own health while diligently caring for others. Dingding, feeling touched, affectionately hugged him, remarking that he was acting like her mother. Ning Weijin admitted the soup was made by Gao Ren, leading Dingding to tease him for presenting a "borrowed gift."
Wen Zixin called Dingding back, explaining that she was in a remote area filming a reality show and couldn't get a flight back yet, despite the production team's efforts. She tearfully pleaded with Dingding to continue caring for Chen Xun for a few more days, stating Dingding was the only one she could trust. Dingding reluctantly agreed, urging her to return as soon as possible.
Ning Weijin informed Dingding that Chen Xun had been transferred to a regular ward, and he had hired professional care workers to look after him, encouraging Dingding to go home and rest while she was sick. However, Dingding insisted on staying until Chen Xun woke up, not wanting him to find himself alone without anyone familiar around. Ning Weijin, unable to convince her, reluctantly consented and left. While Wang Minying was hospitalized for further examination, her husband's anger remained high.
To prevent further conflict before the test results were in, the Director advised Ning Weijin to take some time off from work. Ning Weijin was reluctant to do so, preferring to continue assisting from the hospital. Meanwhile, Shu Yiran visited Ning Weixuan in her hospital room. Ning Weixuan revealed that she still didn't want Dingding to know about her illness, as Dingding already had much to worry about with Chen Xun.
Ning Weixuan also confirmed to Shu Yiran that Gao Ren had started performing surgeries again, aiming to get back into top form before Ning Weixuan's own operation. Dingding visited Ning Weixuan in her room, who expressed concern for Ning Weijin's feelings. Ning Weixuan pointed out that with their wedding approaching, Dingding's devoted care for another man would naturally make her fiancé uncomfortable.
Dingding acknowledged her lapse, admitting she felt bad for Ning Weijin, but reiterated that Chen Xun had no one else until Wen Zixin returned. Later, Dingding fell asleep on Ning Weixuan's hospital bed, exhausted. Ning Weijin came to check on her, and when Baicha's assistant called, he answered, learning that Dingding's designed merchandise was about to launch. Upon waking, Dingding was overjoyed by the news. Shortly after, Chen Xun's doctor called, informing Ning Weijin that Chen Xun had regained consciousness.
Ning Weijin told Dingding the news and urged her to finish her meal, but Dingding rushed to Chen Xun's bedside. Chen Xun, suffering from amnesia due to severe head trauma, recognized no one, although he kept mentioning a "wedding ring." As Dingding repeatedly called his name, Chen Xun looked at her for a long moment before finally remembering her, calling out "Dingding."
Wang Minying's examination report was released, showing that her body contained unknown components in addition to the prescribed medication, suggesting a deviation from medical instructions. Her husband was enraged, accusing Ning Weijin of trying to evade responsibility and demanding his immediate dismissal.
Despite the Director's persistent efforts to mediate, arguing that Ning Weijin's deep understanding of Wang Minying's complex condition made his removal detrimental to her treatment, the husband remained adamant about wanting Ning Weijin fired and refused to see him. Ning Weijin, while understanding the emotional distress, maintained his professional stance, stating he would not avoid the hospital and would continue to develop treatment plans for Wang Minying's current doctors.
The Director eventually agreed to allow other doctors to treat Wang Minying temporarily. Meanwhile, nurses around Chen Xun's bed, mistaking Dingding for his family, discussed Ning Weijin's troubles, revealing that a patient's family was causing a scene and demanding his dismissal. Dingding then realized why Ning Weijin had seemed preoccupied and uneasy these past few days, regretting that she had been too focused on Chen Xun to notice or offer support.
A nurse approached Dingding, reminding her it was time for Chen Xun's physical examinations, and Dingding promptly took him. Later, a junior doctor reiterated support for Ning Weijin regarding Wang Minying's case, assuring him he was not at fault.
Episode 39 Recap
Chen Xun, suffering from a brain injury and memory loss, was advised by his attending doctor to transfer to a specialized neurological hospital for treatment. Zheng Dingding was at a loss, but Ning Weijin had already found a suitable hospital and began arranging the transfer. When Dingding heard the news, she hugged Ning Weijin, thanking him for always being there when she needed him most.
Ning Weijin confessed to Dr. Lu, who helped with the transfer, that Chen Xun was his girlfriend's ex-boyfriend, explaining his involvement as both a boyfriend wanting his girlfriend freed and a doctor understanding her dedication. In the ward, Chen Xun, acting like a child, refused hospital food and demanded food from their old school canteen. He only recognized Dingding, becoming upset when he saw her with Ning Weijin and asking who Ning Weijin was.
Ning Weijin then took Dingding aside, telling her he had arranged the transfer and expressed his desire for them to "get on the right track" once Chen Xun was settled. Dingding agreed, also inquiring about the patient's family causing trouble for Ning Weijin. Back home, Ning Weijin felt depressed. He confided in Gao Ren about Wang Minying's case, where her husband blamed him for her cancer metastasizing after they saved her baby.
Ning Weijin recalled Wang Minying's eyes, full of hope, desiring the child at all costs. This reminded him of his own mother, who, despite suffering from illness, always smiled gently at him and Ning Weixuan. He expressed a sense of helplessness, fearing that Ning Weixuan and Wang Minying might also be taken by illness, just like his mother. Gao Ren encouraged him to stop dwelling on his fears and face reality.
Zheng Dingding and Cat oversaw Chen Xun's transfer to the new hospital. Cat informed Dingding that Chen Xun's mother would arrive in two days, relieving Dingding of her care duties. Dingding expressed relief, believing Chen Xun would recover faster with family support. Cat later tried to jog Chen Xun's memory by talking about their company's early struggles, which helped Chen Xun recall some details about the business.
Cat then presented a proposal ring, reminding Chen Xun that they had picked it out together for Wen Zixin. Confused, Chen Xun asked if it wasn't for Dingding. Meanwhile, Ning Weixuan was preparing for her own surgery. Gao Ren meticulously prepared all her belongings, checking and rechecking a list of items. Ning Weixuan admitted to being nervous, recalling her mother's inability to endure surgical pain, which led her to give up.
The next morning, Gao Ren found Ning Weixuan missing from her room. Panicked, he and others searched for her. Gao Ren eventually found Ning Weixuan at their high school, the place where she first confessed her feelings to him. She explained she had wanted to visit that spot before her surgery and had forgotten her phone. Gao Ren embraced her tightly, expressing his fear of losing her again and regretting not having acknowledged his feelings for her sooner.
Ning Weixuan reassured him that she was no longer afraid with him by her side. She had come to bid farewell to her younger, insecure self, now secure in her love for Gao Ren, and stated that having him and her loved ones meant she had no regrets, no matter the outcome.
Later that day, Ning Weixuan's family and friends, including Ning's father, Yin Fei, Lei, Yunsheng, Gao Ren, and Dingding, gathered at the hospital, anxiously awaiting the results of her surgery. The director personally performed the operation, with Ning Weijin closely observing. The surgery was a success, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief. Ning Weijin drove Dingding home. Noticing his exhaustion, Dingding offered to massage his shoulders.
Ning Weijin wanted to talk, but Dingding received a message from Cat, stating that due to a company emergency, he needed her to return to the hospital to care for Chen Xun. Additionally, the regular nursing aide, Auntie Chen, had a family emergency and couldn't come, meaning Dingding would need to stay at the hospital for several more days.
Ning Weijin grew frustrated, asking how much more Dingding intended to sacrifice for Chen Xun, questioning if she "owed him from a past life." Dingding retorted that perhaps she owed Ning Weijin instead. Realizing his harshness, Ning Weijin sighed and told her to go. The following morning, Ning Weijin brought breakfast to Dingding, finding her asleep on the sofa, having missed a ringing phone call. He gently carried her to bed, heartbroken by her exhaustion.
He left a note for her to take care of herself. He reflected that as a doctor, he understood her actions, but as a man, he found it difficult to be so magnanimous, watching his girlfriend overwork herself for her ex-boyfriend. Later, Wang Minying contacted Ning Weijin and the director, apologizing for her husband's earlier disturbance.
She explained that while her husband regretted their choice, she cherished the joy of motherhood and was grateful to Ning Weijin and Dr. Shu for allowing her to experience it. Ning Weijin then pressed her about any other medications she might have taken. Wang Minying recalled health products her husband had bought for her. Her husband insisted they were from a legitimate source and had worked for a friend. Ning Weijin clarified that such products could conflict with prescribed medications.
Wang Minying's husband was distraught, realizing his good intentions might have harmed his wife, and pleaded with Ning Weijin to save her. Ning Weijin promised to devise a new treatment plan, instructing her to immediately stop taking the health products. The director informed Ning Weijin that his research report had been approved, with high praise from America. He was invited for a year-long study in the United States and could bring a family member.
Ning Weijin expressed concern about leaving Wang Minying's case, but the director assured him he would personally oversee it, emphasizing this was an invaluable opportunity. Confident, Ning Weijin planned to ask Dingding to accompany him. Dingding, having just received a new contract from Baicha, was overjoyed. However, when Ning Weijin asked her to join him in America, she refused, stating that Chen Xun was in a critical stage of memory recovery and she couldn't abandon her new contract.
Ning Weijin's suppressed frustration erupted; he questioned his priority in her life, feeling that her ex-boyfriend and career always came before him. Dingding, overwhelmed, asked for time to think. Disheartened, Ning Weijin compromised, asking only that she see him off at the airport. Chen Xun's memory had largely recovered; he now remembered his company and Wen Zixin. Following the doctor's advice, Dingding had taken him to many familiar places to aid his recall.
As Dingding was preparing to leave for the airport to see Ning Weijin off, she received a frantic call from the hospital: Chen Xun was missing. Dingding immediately launched a search. She called Cat, who organized a search with company staff, while Gao Ren called from the airport, urging her to hurry. Dingding explained Chen Xun's disappearance and promised to come after finding him. Unbeknownst to her, Chen Xun had gone to Wen Zixin's apartment building. As Wen Zixin returned home, they embraced tightly, both relieved. Dingding found them there and, assured Chen Xun was safe, quickly left for the airport.
Episode 40 (Ending) Recap
Dingding rushed to the airport, but it was already too late. She asked Gao Ren where Ning Weijin was, and he informed her that Ning Weijin had already gone in, adding, "Dingding, you're late." Gao Ren explained that Ning Weijin had waited until the very last minute to board his plane, then gravely stated, "You really hurt him this time."
Dingding admitted, "There may be some misunderstandings between us," but there was nothing she could do as Ning Weijin had already departed. She felt a profound sense of loss, made worse when her call to him went unanswered because his phone was off. Back home, Dingding was consumed by a mix of sadness and regret, reflecting on her relationship with Ning Weijin.
She found herself looking at her Little Scarf dolls and their old chat logs, sometimes smiling faintly, but more often secretly shedding tears over Ning Weijin's year-long silence from America. Her friend, Xiao Feng, confronted her, asking why two people who were clearly in love would separate. He criticized their "sentimental" cold war over such a "small thing" and urged them to cherish their relationship. Dingding visited Ning Weixuan in the hospital, hoping for an update on Ning Weijin.
Ning Weixuan, still recovering from surgery, questioned Dingding, "Why didn't you go to America with my brother? Do you know how disappointed he is?" Dingding tried to explain that it was impossible for her to leave, but Ning Weixuan countered that she should have discussed it with Ning Weijin instead of simply rejecting him and not even seeing him off at the airport.
She saw it as a sign of distrust and worried that if the cold war continued, it would be worse than a breakup. Dingding's mother echoed these sentiments over the phone, calling Dingding "crazy" for abandoning Ning Weijin for Chen Xun, especially now that they were close to getting married. Dingding, though hurting, felt helpless. Ning Weixuan, after her successful surgery, told Gao Ren that she now completely trusted him.
Gao Ren, ever attentive, had prepared a fruit salad for her. He shared her concern about Ning Weijin and Dingding, but reminded Ning Weixuan that their own relationship shouldn't be like that. He cautioned, "We can't be like them. Cold War for a trifle. . . It's nothing at all compared to lose each other, right?"
Meanwhile, an online customer named "Love is Deep" expressed great admiration for Dingding's Little Scarf series, telling her, "It's just that I love your Little Scarf series best. You must go on. I want to be the first to see the update." The customer further insisted, "I will always be your first reader." Hearing these words, Dingding was deeply moved as they echoed sentiments Ning Weijin once expressed, and tears welled up in her eyes.
For an entire year, neither Ning Weijin nor Dingding initiated contact. However, they both used video calls with Ning Weixuan to indirectly inquire about each other's well-being. Ning Weixuan told Gao Ren that her brother would "immediately ask about Dingding in a roundabout way," and Dingding, though silent, would listen intently whenever Ning Weijin's name was mentioned. Ning Weixuan found playing matchmaker exhausting, remarking that they were both "duplicitous."
When Ning Weijin's return was announced, Ning Weixuan excitedly pulled Dingding to the airport. Dingding, feeling awkward, tried to leave, but Ning Weixuan insisted, "You just wanted to see him. Don't be so stubborn!" Ning Weijin emerged, greeting Gao Ren and Ning Weixuan warmly, but his response to Dingding's "Are you all right?" was a curt "Not bad," before he addressed everyone with a general "Long time no see."
Just then, Shu Yiran appeared, and Ning Weijin announced, "She came back with me." He then quickly stated that he and Shu Yiran had matters to attend to at the hospital and asked Gao Ren and Ning Weixuan to take his luggage home. Dingding was left stunned and heartbroken by his indifference, and despite Ning Weixuan's attempts to comfort her, she said, "I'm all right. I'll go first."
Feeling that something was amiss, Ning Weixuan chased after Shu Yiran, demanding to know why she returned with Ning Weijin and accusing her of trying to "swoop in again." Shu Yiran firmly set her straight, stating, "It's impossible for me to fall for a same person again," and clarifying that "It was Ning Weijin who invited me back together." Reassured, Ning Weixuan then confronted Ning Weijin, questioning why he ignored Dingding.
Ning Weijin, clearly unwilling to discuss Dingding, dismissed her, saying, "I just came back. Could you leave me alone?" Ning Weixuan warned him about the consequences of his "arrogance," but he simply told her to go, maintaining his cold front. Later, Gao Ren and Shu Yiran met with Ning Weijin for a meal. Gao Ren directly asked Ning Weijin and Shu Yiran if they were together.
Shu Yiran clarified that she was merely assisting her professor at a forum Ning Weijin attended and took a vacation to visit, not to rekindle anything. When Gao Ren asked Ning Weijin why he didn't explain this earlier, Shu Yiran interjected, "Then you have to ask Professor Ning." Gao Ren then pressed Ning Weijin, asking if he wanted to break up with Dingding, to which Ning Weijin replied, "No, I don't want to."
When asked if he wanted to make up, he again said, "I don't want to, either," admitting he was "keen on face-saving." Both Gao Ren and Shu Yiran expressed their frustration, with Gao Ren declaring Ning Weijin "doomed to be lonely forever." Shu Yiran joked, "Luckily, I got out early. I didn't know what was wrong with me to fall in love with him." Ning Weijin simply responded, "I have my own way."
Feeling despondent, Dingding confided in "Love is Deep" about her year-long cold war with her boyfriend and his cold return with another woman, questioning if it was time to give up. " Love is Deep" encouraged her, arguing, "You haven't done it, how could you know if it's agreeable or not?" Dingding found this customer "really interesting." Unbeknownst to her, this customer was Ning Weijin.
Reflecting on the year-long standoff, Ning Weijin realized his "arrogance" and "face-saving" were foolish, concluding that compared to losing Dingding, other things were "small" matters. He then went to Ning Weixuan, admitting, "I was wrong." Ning Weixuan, shocked, asked, "My great brother just admitted his mistake?" Ning Weijin confessed, "Well, I'll confess to you," revealing that he was "Love is Deep."
Ning Weixuan chastised him for his "cat-and-mouse game" but then eagerly offered her help to win Dingding back, advising him to make thorough preparations. That night, Ning Weijin texted Dingding, asking if she was asleep and requesting to meet. Dingding replied, "There's no need. I'm asleep." Undeterred, Ning Weijin texted back, "I'm at your door." He sat outside her home all night. The next morning, Dingding was surprised to see him there, but her surprise quickly turned to anger.
She confronted him, "What do you mean?" Ning Weijin calmly stated, "I just want to see you." Dingding coldly retorted, "That day at the airport, didn't you see me? What have you been doing this year?" She then instructed him, "It's time for me to go out. Please give in," before leaving. Later, "Love is Deep" messaged Dingding again, claiming the previous delivery address had changed and asking her to "deliver them to my door" after buying some more items.
The new delivery address was the school where Dingding and Ning Weijin had had their first date. Dingding agreed to deliver, and upon seeing the familiar location, memories of their time together flooded her mind. At the agreed location, Ning Weijin called out "Dingding." When she realized that he was "Love is Deep," her sadness instantly transformed into a mix of anger and hurt, and tears streamed down her face. She lashed out at him, "Ning Weijin, you're a jerk!
This half year, you have been peeping into my heart like this, while I know nothing about you." She tearfully expressed her longing, telling him, "Every day I was wondering if you are eating well, if you have taken good care of yourself and if you were sick. But you can easily get all of my information." She confronted him for not contacting her directly, yet using "another way" to encourage her and ensure she wouldn't forget him.
Ning Weijin embraced her tightly, profusely apologizing, "Dingding, I was wrong. I really know I was wrong. . . I am a jerk. What kind of face do I need in love? I was wrong. Dingding, I was wrong. I was really wrong. I miss you. I think about you all the time." He pleaded, "Would you like to give me another chance? Shall we start over?" Dingding, overwhelmed, finally reconciled with him.
With the help of Ning Weixuan and Xiao Feng, Ning Weijin set up a romantic proposal scene by the river. Ning Weixuan first took Dingding out for dinner and then for a walk by the river, casually asking her to enjoy the "beautiful night scene" and teasingly dragging her towards the surprise. Ning Weijin then passionately confessed his love, saying, "During your absence, there are 365 days a year, 8,760 hours, 525,600 minutes, 31.
536 million seconds, I miss you every single second. I can't stand the days without you anymore." He continued, "So in the future, whether good or bad, happy or sad, I wish I could experience it with you, and I also hope to have your company in the future." He then got down on one knee and asked, "Dingding, would you like to marry me?" Overjoyed, Dingding tearfully accepted, declaring, "I don't want to be separated from you anymore."
Chen Xun visited Dingding, also inviting Ning Weijin. He explained that since Wen Zixin had her own career and struggled to coordinate with Chengpin's promotions, he wanted to find a "second spokesperson." Dingding jokingly asked if it was her, but Chen Xun pointed to Ning Weijin. Dingding was surprised, asking, "How could Dr. Ning be a spokesperson?"
Chen Xun clarified that he wanted to use the "cartoon image of Little Scarf" as it had a strong fanbase and represented health and care, aligning with Chengpin's brand. He then apologized for past "misunderstandings" he caused between Dingding and Ning Weijin and saw this as an opportunity to make amends. Dingding turned to Ning Weijin, asking, "Will you?" Ning Weijin agreed to Chen Xun's proposal.
Ning Weixuan and Gao Ren visited their old school, playfully reminiscing about Ning Weixuan's past unrequited love for him. She teased him, asking, "Did you find anything different about me?" while he jokingly told her to "Come down" from where she had climbed. Their happiness clearly reflected how far they had come. Later, Ning Weijin brought Dingding home and asked, "Can I stay here tonight?" Dingding assented with "It's up to you."
Ning Weijin then specified, "But I don't want to sleep on the sofa or on the floor anymore either." Dingding said "You. . ." as Ning Weijin leaned in for a kiss, but their cat, Ning Weinan, jumped onto the bed, meowing loudly and interrupting them. They ended up playfully wrestling with the cat.
